Disposable sterilization cover systems, components, and methods for power tools

Abstract

To provide a highly cost-efficient method for providing an improved access to a tool for use in a surgery requiring sterilization and other environments.SOLUTION: A power tool system includes a disposable sterile cover 14. A power tool 12 may be disposed inside an internal cavity of the disposable sterile cover 14. The cover 14 provides a barrier between a sterile field and the power tool 12. A pass-through 16 may be coupled to the power tool 12 inside the cover 14 and extends from the inner cavity defined by the cover 14 to an outside of the cover. The pass-through 16 transmits power or movements created by the power tool 12 to the outside of the cover 14 from the inner cavity of the cover 14. The power or movements can operate a drill bit, a saw and other cutters or other devices such as a traction pin.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1B

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 909,441, filed on 2 October 2019, entitled “DISPOSABLE STERILE COVER SYSTEM FOR POWER TOOLS,” the entirety of said U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 909,441 is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] field The technology described herein relates, in general, to covers for power tools. Power tools have practical applications in surgical procedures. Embodiments of this technology include novel disposable sterile covers, cover systems, components, and methods relating to providing a barrier between non-sterile power tools and a sterile field. [Background technology]

[0003] background Power tools such as drills and saws are used in a variety of surgical procedures, including bone stabilization, fracture repair, joint replacement, joint reconstruction, and bone removal (osteotomy). Drills are also used by orthopedic surgeons, for example, to create holes in bone to receive screws or wires. Since surgery must be performed with sterile instruments, surgical instruments such as surgical drills are designed to withstand sterilization. Such surgical instruments can be very expensive. Because specialized surgical instruments are so expensive, they may not be affordable, which may reduce access to surgical treatment. In parts of the world where surgery is readily available, expensive surgical instruments can contribute to high healthcare costs.

[0004] Battery-powered portable tools for commercial, industrial, and household use are readily available and far less expensive than specialized surgical instruments. Studies have shown that these commonly available tools can meet the performance requirements for surgery, including speed, torque, weight, ergonomics, and electrical safety. However, conventional power tools cannot be effectively sterilized and are therefore not suitable for use in sterile surgery on their own.

[0005] Some regions rely on surgical procedures performed by visiting teams of medical professionals equipped with such devices. Also, military doctors, for example, require portability when deploying surgical teams near or within conflict zones. In these two exemplary situations, the ability to use portable power tools instead of specialized surgical instruments is advantageous.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 10,405,937 describes a power tool cover that can withstand multiple sterilization cycles. Such covers are reusable and have proven to be very useful. [Overview of the project]

[0007] overview While reusable power tool covers that allow for multiple sterilization cycles may be useful, providing a cover system optimized for single use might be a more beneficial alternative.

[0008] In some cases, for example, sterilization procedures, the speed of sterilization equipment, or the lack of convenient access to sterilization equipment can delay access to care, such as access to surgical procedures or other treatments that require sterilization. Faster access to sterilization tools for procedures requiring sterilization can be advantageous. For example, faster access to sterilization surgical instruments can be particularly advantageous during large-scale or highly causal events such as natural disasters or mass traffic accidents.

[0009] There is a general need for a more cost-effective method to provide improved access to tools for use in surgeries and other environments where sterilization is required.

[0010] This disclosure encompasses multiple aspects or embodiments, including, but not limited to, the following: • Embodiments for providing a sterile barrier between a sterilized field and an unsterilized power tool; • Embodiments for sealing a power tool within a cover while transmitting movement from the power tool to the drill bit, blade, or other fixtures outside the cover; • Embodiments for sealing the cover; • Embodiments for packaging the cover; • An embodiment for inserting an unsterilized power tool inside a sterilized cover.

[0011] Such embodiments disclosed herein include covers, cover systems, components, and methods.

[0012] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a disposable cover system for a power tool. The cover system includes a cover having a sterile outer surface and defining an internal cavity; an opening through which a power tool can be inserted into the internal cavity; and an aperture opening through which a pass-through can extend, transmitting the motion generated by the power tool from the inside of the internal cavity to the outside of the cover. The cover system also includes a closing mechanism for closing the opening and a compressible gasket surrounding the aperture opening.

[0013] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a transmission component that transmits motion from a power tool through a sterile barrier. The transmission component includes a first portion located on a first side of the sterile barrier, a second portion located on a second side of the sterile barrier opposite to the first side, and a movable part. The second portion is coupling to the first portion to capture a portion of the sterile barrier between the first and second portions, forming a seal around the aperture opening in the sterile barrier. The movable part is coupled to the first portion, the second portion, or both the first and second portions, extends through the aperture opening, and is coupled to a power tool to transmit motion generated by the power tool through the sterile barrier.

[0014] Furthermore, the disclosure relates in part to an adapter for fitting a sterile barrier to a transmission component, the transmission component configured to transmit motion from a power tool through the sterile barrier. The adapter includes a first portion located on a first side of the sterile barrier and a second portion located on a second side of the sterile barrier opposite to the first side. The second portion is coupled to the first portion to capture and compress a portion of the sterile barrier between the first and second portions, forming a compression seal around an aperture opening in the sterile barrier.

[0015] A further aspect of the present disclosure of a multi-part device includes a first part positioned on a first side of a sterile barrier and a second part positioned on a second side of the sterile barrier opposite to the first side. The second part is coupling with the first part to create an aperture opening in the sterile barrier and to capture a portion of the sterile barrier between the first and second parts to form a seal around the aperture opening.

[0016] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method comprising: orienting an opening opening of a disposable cover to receive a power tool within an internal cavity defined by the disposable cover, the disposable cover having a sterile outer surface and further defining an aperture opening; operating a closure mechanism to close the opening opening with the power tool in the internal cavity while a drive portion of the power tool is adjacent to the aperture opening; and forming a compression seal around the aperture opening to seal the power tool within the internal cavity.

[0017] Further aspects and exemplary embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings and / or described in the following description. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0018] The accompanying drawings illustrate non-limiting exemplary embodiments of the invention. [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A is a side view of a power tool system according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is an exploded view of the power tool system of FIG. 1A. [Figure 1C] FIG. 1C is a schematic diagram of an example of individual components of the power tool system of FIG. 1A. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram of a disposable cover system according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 2B] FIGS. 2B and 2C are views from the left side and the right side, respectively, of the disposable cover system of FIG. 2A. [Figure 2C] FIGS. 2B and 2C are views from the left side and the right side, respectively, of the disposable cover system of FIG. 2A. [Figure 2D] FIGS. 2D-2F are views of a disposable cover according to further exemplary embodiments. [Figure 2E] FIGS. 2D-2F are views of a disposable cover according to further exemplary embodiments. [Figure 2F] FIGS. 2D-2F are views of a disposable cover according to further exemplary embodiments. [Figure 3A]Figures 3A–3E schematically show exemplary embodiments in which a portion of the cover is trapped between parts of the power tool system, forming a seal around the aperture opening in the cover. [Figure 3B] Figures 3A–3E schematically show exemplary embodiments in which a portion of the cover is trapped between parts of the power tool system, forming a seal around the aperture opening in the cover. [Figure 3C] Figures 3A–3E schematically show exemplary embodiments in which a portion of the cover is trapped between parts of the power tool system, forming a seal around the aperture opening in the cover. [Figure 3D] Figures 3A–3E schematically show exemplary embodiments in which a portion of the cover is trapped between parts of the power tool system, forming a seal around the aperture opening in the cover. [Figure 3E] Figures 3A–3E schematically show exemplary embodiments in which a portion of the cover is trapped between parts of the power tool system, forming a seal around the aperture opening in the cover. [Figure 4A] Figure 4A schematically shows a power tool system in which a portion of the cover is trapped between the power tool and an exemplary pass-through coupled to the power tool. [Figure 4B] Figure 4B is a partial cross-section of a power tool system similar to the power tool system in Figure 4A, where a portion of the cover is trapped between the power tool and another exemplary pass-through coupled to that power tool. [Figure 4C] Figure 4C is a perspective view of the exemplary pass-through shown in Figure 4A, which can be coupled to a power tool inside the internal cavity of the cover. [Figure 4D] Figure 4D is a perspective view of an example adapter that can be coupled to a power tool. [Figure 5A] Figure 5A is a perspective view of the exemplary pass-through shown in Figure 4B, which can be directly coupled to a power tool inside the internal cavity of the cover. [Figure 5B] Figure 5B is an exploded view of the example passthrough shown in Figure 5A. [Figure 5C] Figure 5C schematically shows an embodiment in which a portion of the cover is trapped between the first and second exemplary portions of the pass-through, which are coupled together. [Figure 6A] Figures 6A and 6B are perspective and side views, respectively, of an embodiment in which a portion of the cover is trapped between portions of the exemplary adapter. [Figure 6B] Figures 6A and 6B are perspective and side views, respectively, of an embodiment in which a portion of the cover is trapped between portions of the exemplary adapter. [Figure 6C] Figure 6C is a perspective view of an example nose mate adapter shown in Figures 6A and 6B. [Figure 6D] Figures 6D and 6E are perspective and top views, respectively, of the exemplary nose of the adapter shown in Figures 6A and 6B. [Figure 6E] Figures 6D and 6E are perspective and top views, respectively, of the exemplary nose of the adapter shown in Figures 6A and 6B. [Figure 6F] Figure 6F is an exploded view of the adapter shown in Figures 6A and 6B. [Figure 7A] Figure 7A is a top view of a portion of a multi-part device according to another embodiment. [Figure 7B] Figures 7B and 7C are top and side views, respectively, of other parts of a multi-part device. [Figure 7C] Figures 7B and 7C are top and side views, respectively, of other parts of a multi-part device. [Figure 8A] Figure 8A is a schematic diagram of a part of a disposable cover system according to another embodiment. [Figure 8B] Figure 8B is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary interaction between the user's hand and a portion of the disposable cover system shown in Figure 8A. [Figure 9A] Figures 9A to 9D show the use of the cover system according to one embodiment. [Figure 9B] Figures 9A to 9D show the use of the cover system according to one embodiment. [Figure 9C] Figures 9A to 9D show the use of the cover system according to one embodiment. [Figure 9D] Figures 9A to 9D show the use of the cover system according to one embodiment. [Figure 10A] Figures 10A and 10B schematically show how the strap is attached to the cover according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 10B] Figures 10A and 10B schematically show how the strap is attached to the cover according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 11A] Figures 11A to 11F show example folding steps for folding the cover. [Figure 11B] Figures 11A to 11F show example folding steps for folding the cover. [Figure 11C] Figures 11A to 11F show example folding steps for folding the cover. [Figure 11D] Figures 11A to 11F show example folding steps for folding the cover. [Figure 11E] Figures 11A to 11F show example folding steps for folding the cover. [Figure 11F] Figures 11A to 11F show example folding steps for folding the cover. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a schematic perspective view of another example of a power tool system. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is an enlarged perspective view of the exemplary assembly shown in Figure 12. [Figure 14A] Figure 14A is a perspective view of an example adapter. [Figure 14B] Figure 14B is a bottom view of the adapter shown in Figure 14A. [Figure 14C] Figure 14C is a perspective view of the adapter in Figure 14A from the end of the adapter that can be received at the receiving end of a power tool. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0019] Detailed explanation Throughout the following description, specific details are provided illustratively to give a more detailed understanding of the exemplary embodiments of the invention. However, embodiments of the invention can be carried out without these details. In other examples, well-known elements are not shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring embodiments of the invention. Therefore, the specification and drawings should be considered illustrative, not restrictive.

[0020] Surgical procedures typically require surgery on the patient in a sterile environment, or "field." Otherwise, the patient is more likely to experience postoperative side effects such as infection at the surgical site or osteomyelitis.

[0021] In some cases, a team of medical professionals, including, for example, surgeons, operating room nurses, and anesthesiologists, may travel to a region to perform a series of necessary surgical procedures over a day, a week, several weeks, or other period. Non-sterile power tools may be used for surgical procedures by placing them in a sterile cover that can withstand multiple sterilization cycles, as described, for example, in International PCT Application No. PCT / CA2015 / 050290, which is the basis for U.S. Patent No. 10,405,937. Such covers may be sterilized between different surgical procedures. Alternatively, the team may carry a different sterile cover for each procedure. With reusable covers, used covers are typically returned by the team for sterilization and reuse.

[0022] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a disposable sterile cover that can be used to enclose a non-sterile power tool. The cover can be manufactured at a relatively low cost and can be compactly packaged in a disposable package that maintains the sterility of the cover. The non-sterile tool can be quickly inserted into the cover. After the surgical procedure, the tool may be removed from the cover and the cover may be discarded.

[0023] Figure 1A shows an exemplary power tool system 10 according to one embodiment. The power tool system 10 may be used in surgery.

[0024] The power tool system 10 comprises non-sterile power tools 12, such as commercially available power drills, power drivers, screwdrivers, reciprocating saws, or oscillating saws. The power tools 12 may be selected to have characteristics related to goals and requirements regarding one or more parameters such as performance and safety, and to be models suitable for use in surgical procedures or other medical treatments.

[0025] Furthermore, the exemplary power tool system 10 includes a disposable sterile cover 14. The power tool 12 may be placed inside the internal cavity 15 of the disposable sterile cover 14. The cover 14 provides a barrier between the sterile field and the power tool 12.

[0026] The pass-through 16 may be coupled to the power tool 12 inside the cover 14, or it may extend from an internal cavity 15 defined by the cover 14 to the outside of the cover. The pass-through 16 transmits power or motion generated by the power tool 12 from the internal cavity 15 of the cover 14 to the outside of the cover 14. This power or motion can operate, for example, a drill bit, a saw, other cutting tools, or other devices such as a traction pin.

[0027] Figure 1B is an exploded view of an exemplary power tool system 10. Figure 1B schematically shows the individual exemplary parts that can be assembled together in the manner generally shown by the exploded view of Figure 1B to form the exemplary power tool system 10 of Figure 1A. It should be noted that the secondary cover 18 shown in Figure 1A is not shown in Figure 1B. As disclosed elsewhere herein, the mounting of the secondary cover 18 may involve movement of the cover in multiple directions to cover the multiple parts shown in Figure 1B, and therefore the secondary cover 18 is not shown in the exploded view of Figure 1B.

[0028] The exploded view in Figure 1B shows the various components of the exemplary power tool system 10 in a state ready for assembly, while Figure 1C shows such components in a packaged or stored state. For example, referring to the individual components shown in Figure 1C in a packaged or stored state, prior to or during the assembly of the power tool system, the cover 14 is removed from the package 50, the cover and other components are oriented relative to each other, and then joined together as shown in the exploded view in Figure 1B to assemble the exemplary power tool system 10 for use.

[0029] The power tool 12 may be a standard, off-the-shelf power tool of the type that can be used by craftsmen or homeowners. Such a tool may be, for example, a Dewalt TM Milwaukee TM Bosch TM Makita TM Rigid TM Black+ TM Decker and Panasonic TM They are commonly available and sold under brand names such as [brand names omitted]. Such standard power tools are much cheaper than surgical instruments made for special purposes, but are still reliable. Apart from the fact that they cannot be effectively sterilized using normal sterilization procedures, many standard power tools can be adapted for use in medical environments, such as operating rooms, which have requirements for electromagnetic interference, by using cover systems such as those disclosed herein. The power tool 12 may be a battery-powered rotary tool, such as a drill or a screwdriver.

[0030] If the power tool 12 is a rotary tool, one or more of the following characteristics may be desirable: • For applications such as reaming and drilling, it offers operating speeds comparable to conventional surgical drills, for example, 300-1600 rpm; • Operating torque comparable to conventional surgical drills, for example, 6-20 Nm; • For example, weight reduction of less than 1 kg; • Compact design within one or more target physical dimensions; • Battery-powered; For example, robustness in the sense that it does not tend to require regular, complex maintenance, can operate reliably for a long period of time without special maintenance, can withstand travel, or can withstand rough handling; For example, usability in a medical environment where one or more specified criteria must be met, such as not generating excessive electromagnetic interference, not operating at temperatures exceeding a specified threshold operating temperature, not exposing patients to an excessive risk of electric shock, being made of one or more specific materials, or not containing one or more specific materials.

[0031] The cover 14 is designed to enclose the power tool 12 during surgery. The cover 14 may be used to prevent non-sterile material that may be inside the cover's internal cavity from entering the sterile field. The cover 14 may also be used to prevent potentially damaging or hazardous liquids, such as biofluids, that may be outside the cover 14 from entering the internal cavity 15.

[0032] Furthermore, the cover 14 provides access to the internal cavity 15 to allow insertion of the power tool 12 into the internal cavity and coupling of the pass-through 16 to the power tool 12, at least initially. Figure 2A, for example, a schematic diagram of a disposable cover system according to an exemplary embodiment, shows that the cover 14 may include an opening 20 through which the power tool 12 can be inserted into the internal cavity 15. This is perhaps more evident from the diagram in Figure 2B. The pass-through 16 may extend through an aperture opening 21 of the cover 14, which may be more readily apparent from the diagram shown in Figure 2C. In Figure 2A, the cover 14 is shown from the side, as is evident when the cover is folded flat. The diagrams shown in Figures 2B and 2C show a closer view of how the cover 14 appears when opened for insertion of a power tool into the internal cavity.

[0033] Various other features that may be provided in some embodiments are also shown in Figures 1A-2C and are described in detail elsewhere here.

[0034] It should be recognized that these drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments. Other embodiments may include, but do not necessarily, all of the features shown. For example, Figures 2D–2F illustrate disposable covers according to further exemplary embodiments. The figures in Figures 2D–2F are side profile views to illustrate various shapes and features that may be used or provided in other embodiments. Figure 2D shows a cover 14A similar to the cover 14 shown in Figure 2A, but with rounded corners. The exemplary cover 14B shown in Figure 2E has a substantially rectangular or elongated shape and may be suitable for, for example, a power screwdriver. In Figure 2F, the overall shape of the exemplary cover 14C is similar to that of the exemplary cover system 14 in Figure 2D, but may be more suitable for different shapes of power tools, such as a reciprocating saw.

[0035] First, considering some exemplary features related to aperture openings, such as those illustrated in Figure 2A, 21, in some embodiments, a seal can be formed around such an aperture opening by trapping a portion of the cover surrounding the aperture opening between opposing parts of the power tool system, between opposing surfaces, or between opposing compression members, as schematically shown in Figure 3A. For example, a portion of cover 314 may be trapped between a first compression member 317A inside the internal cavity defined by the cover and a second compression member 317B outside the cover 314. The first compression member 317A and the second compression member 317B, as well as other compression members disclosed herein, are examples of compression members that may be located or provided inside and outside the cover.

[0036] The cover is shown in Figure 3A and several other drawings with different reference numerals than those in Figures 1A-2C, illustrating that embodiments do not necessarily depend on specific features of the cover. Various embodiments of the cover may include the same, similar, or different features. For example, in Figures 1A-2C... The cover 14 shown in 2F includes an aperture opening 21, and the cover 314 in Figure 3A also includes an aperture opening 321, but these covers 14, 214 may include various subsets of other features. More generally, features disclosed herein with reference to one embodiment may, but are not necessarily, be provided in other embodiments. This applies not only to covers but also to other parts, components, systems, and methods disclosed herein.

[0037] In some embodiments, the compression members 317A and 317B are configured to compress a portion of the cover 314 in a sealing region that extends fully around the aperture opening 321. Securing the cover 314 between the compression members 317A and 317B, as in the example shown, compresses the cover 314 between the compression members, thereby forming the desired seal around the aperture opening 321.

[0038] During use, the cover 314 is positioned between the compression members 317A and 317B with the aperture opening 321 aligned inside the sealing area, and the compression members 317A and 317B are moved toward each other to provide a compression seal between at least the second compression member 317B and the cover 314.

[0039] A power tool system, such as the power tool 12 in the example power tool system 10 in Figure 1A, is preferably designed to facilitate the quick and easy replacement of a cover during or between operations in the event of sterilization damage to the cover, such as perforation or tearing. Various mechanisms may be used to bring a seal by advancing parts of one or more components toward each other, such as the compression members 317A and 317B in Figure 3A, and to release the cover by separating parts such as the compression members 317A and 317B after the cover has been used, for example.

[0040] In some designs, the motion resulting from coupling the pass-through to the power tool causes the compression member 317B to advance toward the compression member 317A to perform a seal. Such motion is perhaps best seen in the exploded view of Figure 1B, in which the pass-through 16 is moved toward and coupled toward the power tool 12 during the assembly of the exemplary power tool system 10. In such designs, the sealing of the cover 14 around the aperture opening 21, as shown in Figures 2A and 2C, for example, occurs simultaneously and automatically with the coupling of the pass-through 16 toward the power tool 12.

[0041] Referring to Figure 3A, in some designs, the sealing of the cover 314 around the aperture opening 321 may occur before, during, or after the pass-through is coupled to the power tool, so that one or both of the compression members 317A and 317B move relative to the pass-through.

[0042] In some designs, one or both of the compression members 317A and 317B are designed to be coupled to each other to provide a seal to the cover 314 around the aperture opening 321 before the pass-through is coupled to the power tool. In such designs, the pass-through may be configured to be detachably coupled to one or both of the compression members 317B and 317A after the compression members 317A and 317B have been coupled to each other to seal around the aperture opening 321.

[0043] The engaging surfaces, such as the surfaces of the compression members 317A and 317B that engage with the cover 314, are preferably smooth. Furthermore, the engaging surfaces of the compression members 317A and 317B may be planar. Having smooth surfaces, planar surfaces, or surfaces that are both smooth and planar can advantageously increase the reliability that a continuous seal can be formed around the aperture opening 321 by compressing the cover 314 between the compression members 317A and 317B. In some embodiments, one or both engaging surfaces of the compression members 317A and 317B include protruding elements, such as protruding rings, configured to recess, penetrate, surround, or otherwise deform, engage, adjoin, or cooperate with the cover 314 in order to improve the seal formed around the aperture opening 321. Elements configured to penetrate the cover may create or form an aperture opening in the cover at any location that is appropriate or convenient, as described in further detail elsewhere here.

[0044] In some embodiments, one or more gaskets surround the aperture opening in the cover, as shown for example in Figures 2A and 2C as gasket 22 surrounding the aperture opening 21. The gaskets may be made of a compressible material. Securing one or more gaskets, such as gasket 22, may involve compressing the gaskets, which can increase the likelihood of forming a continuous seal around the aperture opening. See Figures 3B–3E for examples.

[0045] As illustrated in Figures 3B-3E, gaskets may surround the aperture opening on both sides of the cover. For example, referring to Figure 3B, gasket 322A may surround the aperture opening 321 on the inside of the cover 314, and another gasket 322B may surround the aperture opening 321 on the outside of the cover 314. In some embodiments, the cover system includes a single gasket on the inside or outside of the cover. Providing one or more gaskets on a single-use cover ensures that an unused gasket is always used to help seal around the aperture opening in the cover. As an addition or alternative, gaskets may be provided on one or both of the compression members 317A and 317B. More generally, gaskets may be attached to the cover or to one or more other parts of the cover system or power tool system, or they may be integrated with the cover or to one or more other parts of the cover system or power tool system, or they may be provided separately from the cover and to one or more other parts of the cover system or power tool system.

[0046] A gasket, or if multiple gaskets are provided, each gasket, may in some embodiments have one or more of the following characteristics or features: • Made from or containing closed-cell polyethylene foam; For example, between compression members such as compression members 317A and 317B, sufficient compression resistance is provided to form a seal when compressed; • Biocompatible; • It is hydrophobic; For example, they can be manufactured inexpensively by punching out multiple gaskets from a sheet of material using a punching machine, or by using a molding process.

[0047] In some embodiments, the gasket has an inner diameter of less than 35 mm. In some embodiments, the gasket has an inner diameter of 20 mm to 30 mm, for example, 29.5 mm. In some embodiments, the gasket has an outer diameter of less than 60 mm. In some embodiments, the gasket has an outer diameter of 40 mm to 55 mm, for example, 49.5 mm. In some embodiments, the gasket is less than 10 mm thick. In some embodiments, the gasket is 5 mm to 10 mm thick, for example, 6.4 mm thick, before it is compressed.

[0048] The gasket may be circular, as illustrated in Figure 2C, but in some embodiments, a non-circular gasket may be used. The shape of the gasket may match the shape of the aperture opening. The gasket size may further or instead be related to the aperture opening size, having an inner diameter or dimensions of the gasket that match the diameter or dimensions of the aperture opening. In other embodiments, the inner diameter or dimensions of the gasket are larger or smaller than the diameter or dimensions of the aperture opening.

[0049] The aperture opening in the cover may be circular, as illustrated in Figure 2C, but this is not mandatory. In some embodiments, the aperture opening has a diameter of less than 35 mm. In some embodiments, the aperture opening has a diameter of 15 mm to 30 mm, for example, 29.5 mm. In some embodiments, the aperture opening is punched out of the cover with a punching machine. In other embodiments, the aperture opening is made or formed in the cover when the cover is used with a power tool.

[0050] In embodiments including multiple gaskets, each gasket 22 may be the same or different.

[0051] The gasket may be attached to the cover by adhesive or by other means. For example, the gasket may be attached to the cover using double-sided tape, a suitable adhesive, or heat welding.

[0052] In embodiments including one or more gaskets, the portion, part, or mechanism supporting the compression members 317A or 317B may be designed such that the compression members are separated by a distance d when the compression members are advanced sufficiently toward each other. The distance d is small enough that the portion of the cover defining the aperture opening is sufficiently compressed and seals between the compression members, but not excessively compressed. In some embodiments, the distance d is 10 mm or less. In some embodiments, the distance d is 5 mm or less. In some embodiments, the distance d is 1 mm or less.

[0053] The compression members 317A, 317B may include one or more surfaces of any of the various parts or components of the power tool system. Referring, for example, to the exploded view of Figure 1B, the compression member may be one or more surfaces of the body of the power tool 12 or the pass-through 16 which is to be located inside the internal cavity of the cover 14, or may include such one or more surfaces. The compression member may also be one or more surfaces of other power tool system components disclosed herein, such as an adapter configured to receive the pass-through, or may include such one or more surfaces.

[0054] Figures 3B to 3E show several embodiments including a gasket.

[0055] In Figure 3B, gaskets 322A and 322B are provided on both sides of the cover 314 and are compressed by compression members 317A and 317B to form a compression seal around the aperture opening 321. In this example, both the cover 314 and the gaskets 322A and 322B are compressed within the distance d between the compression members 317A and 317B.

[0056] Figure 3C shows an embodiment in which gaskets 322C and 322D are provided on both sides of the cover 314, but the gaskets do not extend very far along the surface of the cover, as in the example shown in Figure 3B. The gaskets 322C and 322D are compressed by compression members 317A and 317B to form a compression seal around the aperture opening 321, and both the cover 314 and the gaskets are compressed within the distance d between the compression members 317A and 317B, as in Figure 3B. In Figure 3B, the gaskets 322A and 322B extend beyond the compression members 317A and 317B, at least when compressed, whereas the gaskets 322C and 322D in Figure 3C do not extend beyond the compression members.

[0057] Further examples are shown in Figure 3D. The example in Figure 3D is similar to the example in Figure 3C, except that only the gaskets 322E and 322F in Figure 3D are compressed by the compression members 317A and 317B to form a compression seal around the aperture opening 321. In this example, the cover 314 is not compressed.

[0058] The example shown in Figure 3E is an example of an embodiment in which a gasket, or a separate gasket, extends axially in the aperture opening 321. In Figure 3E, such axial extensions are shown as 322G and 322H. In the case of a circular aperture opening, the axial extension of the gasket may be, for example, in the form of a tubular or cylindrical structure. The axial gasket may be used in combination with radially extending gaskets such as 322A and 322B, or the gasket may include axially extending portions at 322G and 322H and one or more radially extending portions at 322A and 322B. In other words, the axially extending portions 322G and 322H may be one or more separate gaskets or different parts of a single gasket, or may include one or more separate gaskets or different parts of a single gasket.

[0059] In the example shown in Figure 3E, one or more gaskets 322A, 322B, 322G, 322H and cover 314 are compressed within a distance d by compression members 317A, 317B. In other embodiments, compression members 317A, 317B compress only one or more gaskets 322A, 322B, 322G, 322H, and not cover 314.

[0060] A compressible gasket, which is substantially flat when not compressed, may axially extend into the aperture opening of the cover when compressed. Referring again to Figure 3E, in embodiments where the aperture opening 314 is smaller than the opening or aperture opening of one or more gaskets, portions 322G, 322H may be formed when the gasket is compressed, or may include multiple compressed gasket portions. In such embodiments, the compression of one or more gaskets may deform them to such an extent that one or more gaskets extend at least partially into the aperture opening 314, potentially providing an improved seal.

[0061] Various embodiments of the cover system are described above with reference to Figures 1A to 3E. These embodiments are examples of disposable cover systems for power tools. Such a disposable cover system may include a cover or enclosure, such as 14, 314, which may include a sterile outer or outer surface and may define an internal cavity inside the cover, as illustrated in 15, having dimensions to receive a power tool. The cover may also define an opening, such as 20, through which the power tool can be inserted into the internal cavity. The opening has dimensions to allow insertion of the power tool into the internal cavity. The cover may also define an aperture opening or second opening opening, such as 21, 321, through which a pass-through can extend, transmitting the movement generated by the power tool from the inside of the internal cavity to the outside of the cover. The aperture opening or second opening opening has dimensions to allow insertion of the pass-through into the internal cavity and connection of the pass-through to the power tool. In some embodiments, the pass-through includes an outer end on the outside of a cover or enclosure and has a coupling mechanism that is operable to connect a tool or instrument to the outer end. Pass-through 16 is an example of a pass-through, and other examples are provided herein.

[0062] The cover system may also include a closing mechanism or closing body arranged to close the opening, and a compressible gasket surrounding the aperture opening. The compressible gasket is generally shown as gasket 22, and additional examples are shown in Figures 3A–3E.

[0063] The compressible gasket may be attached to the cover, or the cover itself may include the compressible gasket. The compressible gasket may be integrated with the cover, for example, by providing the gasket between the layers of the cover.

[0064] In some embodiments, the cover system includes a sterile compressible gasket positioned on the sterile outer surface of the cover, as illustrated in Figure 2A, 22. Further compressible gaskets may be positioned on the inner surface of the cover within the internal cavity, surrounding the aperture opening. The examples shown in Figures 3B–3E all include compressible gaskets positioned on the opposite side of the cover 314. One of these surfaces is the inner surface, and the other is the sterile outer surface. Compressing such gaskets between, for example, a first and second compression member, as described elsewhere here, forms a seal around the aperture opening.

[0065] As shown in Figure 3E as an example, the compressible gasket may extend axially from the aperture opening. The compressible gasket may further extend radially from the aperture opening along the sterile outer surface of the cover, or further or alternatively, radially from the aperture opening along the inner surface of the cover within the internal cavity. In the embodiment corresponding to Figure 3E, a single gasket may extend axially at the aperture opening 321 and radially along the opposite inner and outer surfaces of the cover 314.

[0066] In some embodiments, the pass-through is directly coupled to the power tool. In such embodiments, as shown as an example in Figures 4A and 4B, a portion of the cover 414, and gaskets 422A, 422B if included as shown in the example in Figure 4B, may be trapped between the surface 413 of the power tool 412 inside the internal cavity 415 defined by the cover and the surface 419 of the pass-through 416A or 416B outside the cover 414. In such embodiments, the first compression member may be provided by the surface 413, and the second compression member may be provided by the surface 419. This illustrates one possible embodiment of the first and second compression members 317A, 317B shown in Figures 3B to 3E.

[0067] In some embodiments, a pass-through appears to be exemplified as pass-through 416A in Figures 4A and 4C, which can be directly coupled to the coupling mechanism of the power tool 412. The illustrated offset of the outer portion 432 of the power tool 412 with respect to the axis of motion is optional. Another example of a pass-through without offset is shown as 416B in Figure 4B. Both of these pass-throughs 416A and 416B represent exemplary and non-limiting embodiments of the pass-through 16 more generally shown in Figures 1A-1C.

[0068] An example “offset” pass-through 416A includes an inner portion 430A that can be coupled to the coupling mechanism of a power tool 412. The inner portion 430A can be inserted into the internal cavity 415 through an aperture opening in the cover 414 and coupled to the coupling mechanism of the power tool 412. The inner portion 430A may include an anchor portion configured to fix and / or orient the pass-through 416A to the power tool 412, and a rotating portion configured to transmit the motion generated by the power tool 412 from the internal cavity to the outside of the cover through the aperture opening. In some embodiments, the shaft 430' of the pass-through 416A may be directly coupled to the coupling mechanism of the power tool 412, such as the coupling mechanism 42 shown in Figure 4D. Once coupled to the power tool 412, the inner portion 430A can transmit the power or motion generated by the power tool 412 inside the internal cavity 415 to the outer portion 432A of the pass-through 416A.

[0069] Furthermore, coupling the pass-through 416A to the power tool 412 may be automatically positioned such that the pass-through surface 419 is sufficiently far from the surface 413 of the power tool 412, for example, by the distance d shown in Figures 3A-3E, to form a seal around the aperture opening of the cover 414. The inner portion 430A may include a gasket or O-ring 430'' which is engaged with one or more gaskets 422A, 422B, and further or instead engaged with the cover 414. The gaskets 422A, 422B, or O-ring 430'' may help ensure that a complete seal is formed around the aperture opening of the cover 414.

[0070] The inner portion 430A may be configured to form a “push and click” coupling mechanism with the power tool 412. The inner portion 430A may be pushed, for example, into the receiving end of the coupling mechanism of the power tool 412. Either or both of the receiving end of the power tool 412 and the inner portion 430A may include features such as facets, splines, ridges, or grooves configured to orient the inner portion 430A relative to the receiving end. Additionally or alternatively, either or both of the receiving end of the power tool 412 and / or the inner portion 430A may include one or more features configured to lock the pass-through 416A relative to the receiving end once the inner portion 430A has been inserted into the receiving end by a desired amount.

[0071] Inserting the pass-through 416A into the receiving end of the power tool 412 may, for example, allow a locking pin, such as the pin 464 shown in FIG. 4D of the receiving end, to slide along the slope 431 shown in FIG. 4C. When the inner portion 430A is sufficiently inserted, the locking pin can drop into or be forcibly pushed into the recess 434 of the inner portion 430A, thereby locking the pass-through 416A relative to the receiving end of the power tool 412. In some embodiments, the slope 431 is configured such that the inner portion 430A needs to be pushed into the receiving end and twisted before the inner portion 430A is locked relative to the receiving end of the power tool 412. Such twisting may be clockwise, counter-clockwise, or may include both clockwise and counter-clockwise twisting.

[0072] In some embodiments, the inner portion 430A may be inserted into a standard coupling mechanism of the power tool 412, such as a shaped recess or chuck of an electric screwdriver, as exemplified by the coupling mechanism 42 shown in FIG. 4D.

[0073] In some embodiments, the coupling mechanism of the power tool 412 may be modified to allow direct insertion of the pass-through 416A.

[0074] In some embodiments, the coupling mechanism of the power tool 412 is modified to match the coupling mechanism of a purpose-built surgical power tool, allowing direct coupling of a surgical grade tool to the power tool 412. In some embodiments, the coupling mechanism of the power tool 412 or the pass-through 416A allows direct coupling of commercially available tools from companies such as Hudson TM , Zimmer TM , Stryker TM , Hall-Jacobs TM , AO TM , or Synthes TM .

[0075] In some embodiments, the coupling mechanism of the power tool 412 includes a "male" type shaft, and the inner portion 430A includes a "female" type receiving end. In some embodiments, the coupling mechanism of the power tool 412 may include an n-point coupling configured to receive a corresponding n-point shaft of the pass-through 416A. In some embodiments, the shaft has a hexagonal cross-section. In some embodiments, the shaft has a dodecagonal cross-section. In some embodiments, the coupling mechanism of the power tool 412 includes an n-point shaft, and the pass-through 416 includes an n-point recess configured to receive the n-point shaft.

[0076] In some embodiments, the coupling mechanism of the power tool 412 is modified by coupling an adapter to the power tool 412. The adapter may include one or more feature components configured to position and / or secure the pass-through 416A relative to the coupling mechanism of the power tool 412.

[0077] Figure 4D shows an exemplary adapter 460 coupled to a power tool 412. In the illustrated embodiment, the power tool 412 is a commercially available screwdriver. The exemplary adapter 460 may be positioned across the top of the power tool 412. The adapter 460 is preferably securely coupled to the power tool 412, for example, in a non-movable manner. For example, the adapter 460 may be glued to the power tool 412. In another example, the adapter 460 may be made of at least a semi-stretchable material. In such an embodiment, the opposite end of the adapter 460 may be stretched across a portion of the power tool 412, thereby securely attaching the adapter 460 to the power tool 412. In yet another example, the adapter 460 may not be bendable. In some embodiments, the adapter 460 may be fixed to the power tool 412. In some embodiments, the adapter 460 includes two parts that can be coupled together. The two parts can be joined together, for example, by gluing the two parts together or by fastening the two parts together, thereby securing the adapter 460 to the power tool 412.

[0078] The adapter 460 may include one or more recesses 462 configured to receive guide projections 461 of the pass-through 416A. In some embodiments, the pass-through 416A includes a single guide projection 461. In some embodiments, the pass-through 416A includes multiple guide projections 461. Insertion of the projections 461 into the corresponding recesses 462 of the adapter 460 can position the pass-through 416A in a desired direction relative to the power tool 412. The recesses 462 may include filleted corners. The fillets may, for example, facilitate easier insertion of the projections 461 into the recesses 462. In some embodiments, the recesses 462 are dimensioned to frictionally engage with the surface of the projection 461. The frictional engagement surface of the projection 461 can increase the strength of the connection between the pass-through 416A and the power tool 412. In some embodiments, the recess 462 is formed between the surface of the adapter 460 and the opposing surface of an existing coupling mechanism of the power tool 412, such as coupling mechanism 42.

[0079] The exemplary adapter 460 includes a recess 462, but this is not mandatory. In some embodiments, the adapter 460 includes a guide projection that can be inserted into the recess of the pass-through 416A. In some embodiments, the adapter 460 includes at least one recess and at least one projection.

[0080] When the pass-through is coupled to the power tool 412, the engagement of the pin 464 with the bevel 31 of the pass-through 416A, for example, presses the pin 464 until the hole 434 is close to the pin 464. Once the hole 434 is positioned above the pin 464, the pin 464 may extend into the hole 434, thereby securing the pass-through to the power tool 412. In some embodiments, the pin 464 is spring-loaded radially inward or otherwise biased.

[0081] The pass-through 416 can be detached from the power tool 412 by disengaging the pin 464 from the hole 434 and pulling the pass-through 416A outward relative to the power tool 412 and adapter. The adapter 460 may include, for example, a release mechanism 465 configured to disengage the pin 464 from the hole 434. In some embodiments, pressing the release mechanism 465 allows the pin 464 to retract, thereby detaching the pass-through 416A from the power tool 412. In some embodiments, the release mechanism 465 is recessed relative to the periphery of the adapter 460 to prevent accidental detachment of the pass-through.

[0082] The surface 413 of the adapter 460 may be recessed relative to the outer edge of the adapter 460. Providing a recessed surface 413 may assist in aligning the gasket 422A, the nosemate described elsewhere herein, or other parts or components with the adapter 460, potentially improving the reliability of forming a complete seal around the aperture opening of the cover 414.

[0083] The outer portion 432A of the pass-through 416A may have tools attached to it, such as a drill bit, saw, wire, reamer, or traction pin. An example of a tool is shown as 35 in Figure 1A. Preferably, various tools can be easily attached to and detached from the outer portion during surgical procedures.

[0084] The outer portion 432A of the pass-through 416A may include a chuck or similar mechanism for releasably coupling the pass-through to a tool driven by a power tool 412. For example, referring to Figure 1A, a chuck is shown as 33. By tightening the chuck 33, a tool 35 may be coupled to the outer portion 32 of the pass-through 16. By loosening the chuck 33, the tool 35 may be discoupled from the outer portion 32 of the pass-through 16. In another example, the outer portion 32 of the pass-through 16 may have a recess or guide function having a specific cross-section. The male mating end of the tool 35 may have a matching cross-section. By inserting its male mating end into the recess, the tool 35 may be coupled to the outer portion 32 of the pass-through 16. In some embodiments, the tool 35 has a female mating end which may be pressed onto a male receiving shaft of the outer portion 32.

[0085] Various tools 35 coupled to the outer portion 32 of the pass-through 16 may be actuated and require various types of motion. For example, a drill bit may need to rotate the outer portion 32. In contrast, a reciprocating saw blade may require reciprocating linear motion or reciprocating annular motion of the outer portion 32. Various embodiments of the pass-through 16 may be used based on the type of tool 35 coupled to the outer portion 32 of the pass-through 16 and the type of power tool provided inside the cover 14. Some embodiments of the pass-through 16 transmit rotational motion to the outer portion 32.

[0086] Some embodiments of the pass-through 16 convert rotational motion generated by the power tool 12 into linear motion. To achieve reciprocating linear motion, any of a wide variety of mechanisms may be provided. For example, the pass-through 16 may include a slider-crank mechanism, a cam and follower mechanism, a wobble plate mechanism, a reversing screw mechanism, or any other known mechanism for converting rotational motion into reciprocating linear motion.

[0087] Some embodiments of the pass-through 16 transmit linear motion from an inner portion to an outer portion 32. For example, the pass-through 16 may include a shaft that reciprocates freely. The shaft may slide in a linear bearing or bushing of the pass-through 16, or it may be connected to a diaphragm that allows for a desired or required degree of linear motion.

[0088] In some embodiments, the pass-through 16 transmits oscillating linear motion, for example, for a reciprocating saw. In some embodiments, the pass-through 16 transmits oscillating circular motion, for example, for an oscillating / sagittal saw or for a TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) saw.

[0089] In some embodiments, the pass-through 16 is a universal power transmission or motion transmission component. "Universal" means that a single pass-through 16 can be used during surgery to transmit two or more different types of motion to the outer part of the pass-through 16. In some such embodiments, the pass-through 16 may be switchable between a first mode in which rotational motion of the inner part is transmitted to the outer part, and a second mode in which rotational motion of the inner part is converted into linear or lateral motion. For example, the mode of such a pass-through 16 may be changed, for example, by turning a dial or operating a switch in the pass-through 16.

[0090] In some cases, the pass-through 16 transmits the motion generated by the power tool 12 to a fitting on the outer portion 32 located outside the cover 14. Through the surgical process, various adapters, such as adapters that convert rotational motion to linear motion, or adapters that convert rotational motion to oscillating circular motion, can be coupled to the outer portion 32 of the pass-through 16. Advantageously, this can facilitate the use of various tools 35, such as drill bits, saw blades, or traction pins, with the power tool 12 without damaging the sterile barrier. For example, allowing multiple adapters to be coupled to and uncoupled from the outer portion 32 of the pass-through 16 can avoid damaging the seal around the aperture opening of the cover 14, and allows for the uncoupling and coupling of various embodiments of the pass-through 16 to enable various types of tools to be driven by the power tool 12.

[0091] The pass-through 16 is optionally disposable. In such embodiments, the disposable pass-through may be provided together with the cover 14. In some embodiments, the cover 14 may be delivered together with the disposable pass-through pre-attached to the cover 14.

[0092] These and other features related to the pass-through 16 can be implemented in combination with any of the various types of pass-throughs. In some embodiments, for example, the axis of motion of the outer portion of the pass-through 16 may be offset with respect to the axis of motion of the power tool 12. Referring again to Figure 4C, the inner and outer portions 430A and 432A of the exemplary pass-through 416A are offset from each other in the axial direction. The offset mechanism 442 may be configured to axially offset the outer portion 432A from the inner portion 430A while transmitting movement from the inner portion 430A to the outer portion 432A. However, this is not necessary in all embodiments. In some embodiments, the inner and outer portions of the pass-through are aligned axially with each other, as shown as an example in Figure 5A, which will be explained in more detail below.

[0093] The offset mechanism 442 may be provided with a geared system, a belt system, etc., to transmit movement from the inner portion 430A to the outer portion 432A. The outer portion 432A may include a collet. By offsetting the outer portion 432A from the operating axis of the power tool 412, it may be possible for the collet to hold a wire (or K-wire) longer than it could be held by the collet if the outer portion 432A were not offset from the operating axis of the power tool 412. The offset mechanism 442 may remain stationary relative to one or both of the inner portion 430A and the outer portion 432A.

[0094] The pass-through 416B schematically shown in Figure 5A is another embodiment of the pass-through. The pass-through 416B may be substantially identical to the pass-through 416A described elsewhere herein, except that the inner and outer portions 530B, 532B of the pass-through 416B may be axially aligned and directly coupled together, rather than being offset from each other and coupled together via an offset mechanism as in the case of the offset pass-through 416A, or may be configured to allow them to be directly coupled and uncoupled from each other. Elements 519, 530", 531, 534, and 561 in Figure 5A may be substantially the same as similarly labeled elements of the pass-through 416A. The pass-through 416B may further or instead include other pass-through features described herein, for example, with reference to the pass-through 16 in Figure 1A.

[0095] Figure 5B shows an exploded view of the pass-through 416B, with the inner portion 530A on the right side of the drawing and the outer portion 532A on the left side of the drawing. Figure 5B provides an example of an embodiment in which the pass-through has multiple parts or components that can be releasably coupled together. In some embodiments, the pass-through 416B includes multiple parts that can be coupled and discoupled together with respect to one another, but in other embodiments, the pass-through in the form shown in 416B does not necessarily have to include multiple parts that are intended to be separable or discoupled.

[0096] In Figure 5B, 590 and 592 represent the respective surfaces of the inner portion 532A and the outer portion 530A, which face each other to capture a portion of the cover when the pass-through 416B is assembled with the inner and outer portions on opposite sides of the cover. In some embodiments, a compression seal is formed, and accordingly, surfaces 590 and 592 are further examples of compression surfaces or compression members.

[0097] Bearings 572 and 574 are shown as examples of components that can isolate the inner portion 530A and the outer portion 532A from the rotation of the shaft 576 by a power tool. The shaft 576 can rotate or reciprocate without causing movement of the inner or outer portion, for example, to transmit movement from a power tool inside the cover to the outside of the cover.

[0098] The inner portion 530A may include an anchor portion having a bevel 531 and a hole 534 in the shown example to secure and / or orient the pass-through 416B to the power tool. Bearings 572, 574 and shaft 572 illustrate a transmission section configured to transmit power or motion from the internal cavity to the outside of the cover through the aperture opening. Although not specifically shown in Figure 5B, shaft 576 may have a non-circular shape such as a hexagonal, dodecagonal, or n-point cross section.

[0099] A multi-part pass-through, such as pass-through 416B, may be useful, for example, to form a seal around the aperture opening in the cover using the pass-through itself. In such embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 5C, a portion of the cover 514 may be trapped between the inner portion 530A and the outer portion 532A of pass-through 416B. For example, by coupling the inner portion 530A of pass-through 416B to the outer portion 532A of pass-through 16B, a portion of the cover 514 may be trapped between the inner and outer portions 530A, 532A. The opposing surfaces of the inner and outer portions 530A, 532A, shown as examples in 590, 592 in Figure 5B, may be separated by a sufficient distance, for example, the distance d as referenced above, to form a seal around the aperture opening 521 in the cover. The inner and outer portions 530A and 532A can be joined to each other using, for example, one or more of the following: screw couplings, magnetic couplings, bayonet couplings, clip-holding couplings, spring-loaded ball couplings, spring-loaded bar couplings, spring-loaded pin couplings, and spring-holding couplings. Referring again to Figure 5B, parts 582 and 584 represent threaded columns, shafts, or tubes for joining the inner and outer portions 530A and 532A together via threaded couplings. In the example shown, the outer surface of column 584 is threaded to connect to the threaded inner surface of column 582. Other types of couplings, including other types of screw couplings and non-threaded couplings, are also possible. Other examples of couplings are provided elsewhere here.

[0100] Figures 5A to 5C show a linear passthrough 416B with multiple parts, but the offset passthrough may be implemented using multiple parts that can be coupled to and uncoupled from one another, or in addition. Referring to Figure 4C, for example, the inner part 430A may be releasably coupled to the offset mechanism 442, capturing a portion of the cover between them. In another embodiment, the offset mechanism 442 may be releasably coupled to the outer part 432A, or in addition.

[0101] A multi-part passthrough may include other passthrough features disclosed herein.

[0102] A multi-part pass-through is an example of a transmission component for transmitting motion from a power tool across a sterile barrier, whether linear or offset. A multi-part transmission component may include an inner part, such as 430A, 530A, or more generally a first part, located on a first side of the sterile barrier; an outer part, such as 432A, 532A, or more generally a second part, located on a second side of the sterile barrier opposite the first side; and a movable or drivable component, such as a shaft 430', 576.

[0103] The second part is connectable to the first part so as to capture a portion of the sterile barrier between the first and second parts, thereby forming a seal around the aperture opening in the sterile barrier. This is perhaps most clearly illustrated by the example in Figure 5C.

[0104] The movable parts are coupled to a first part, a second part, or both the first and second parts, extend through an aperture opening, and are coupled to a power tool to transmit the movement generated by the power tool across the sterile barrier. Referring to Figures 5B and 5C, the shaft 576 is an example of such a movable part, which will be coupled to the inner part 530A and the outer part 532A by bearings 572, 574 when at least the pass-through 416B is assembled, and in the assembled state shown as an example in Figure 5C, the shaft will extend through the sterile barrier, which includes a cover 514 and gaskets 522A, 522B.

[0105] In some embodiments, a single bearing or other component may be used to connect a moving part to only a portion of a multi-part transmission component. For example, one bearing 572, 574 may be potentially sufficient to support the shaft 576.

[0106] In its unassembled state, the movable parts, such as the shaft 576, may be coupled to any part of the multi-part transmission component. Referring to Figure 5B as an example, the bearings 572 and 574 may be mounted on or be part of the outer and inner parts 532A and 530A, respectively, and the shaft 576 may be coupled to and held in one of the bearings prior to the assembly of the pass-through 416B. During assembly, the shaft will be inserted into the other bearings.

[0107] The first portion of the multi-part transmission component may include or provide a first compression surface, and the second portion may include or provide a second compression surface for engaging and compressing portions of the sterile barrier on the first and second sides, respectively. In such embodiments, the seal is or includes a compression seal between the first and second compression surfaces. Surfaces 590 and 592 in Figure 5B represent examples of such compression surfaces.

[0108] In some embodiments, the transmission component includes one or both of a compressible gasket on a first compression surface and a compressible gasket on a second compression surface. One or more compressible gaskets may be provided separately, and for example, a portion of the sterilization barrier may include a compressible gasket for compression between the first and second compression surfaces.

[0109] The first and second parts may be joined together via any of various types of couplings. For example, the first and second parts may include one or more cooperating components from among screw couplings, press-fit couplings, magnetic couplings, bayonet couplings, clip-hold couplings, spring-loaded ball couplings, spring-loaded bar couplings, spring-loaded pin couplings, and spring-hold couplings to join the second part to the first part.

[0110] The motion transmitted by the transmission component may be or may include rotational motion generated by a power tool, in which case the movable component may be coupled to the first part, the second part, or both the first and second parts via one or more bearings or bushings. Bearings are shown as examples in Figure 5B at 572 and 574.

[0111] The movement may also include, or instead of, a linear movement generated by a power tool, in which case the moving parts may be coupled to the first part, the second part, or both the first and second parts via one or more bearings, bushings, or diaphragms.

[0112] Other types and forms of motion include, for example, rotational and linear vibrational motion, either or both of which can be generated by power tools.

[0113] In some embodiments, the motion generated by a power tool is of one type or includes one type of motion, and the transmission component includes a mechanism that converts that one type of motion into another type of motion.

[0114] In some embodiments, pass-throughs such as 16, 416A, and 416B are supported by an adapter or used in conjunction with an adapter in other ways. An adapter can be considered to support a pass-through in the sense that it can provide more physical support to the pass-through than a cover alone could provide. A cover may be made of, for example, one or more flexible materials, or may contain one or more flexible materials, and an adapter may be made of, or may contain, less flexible or more rigid materials to support a pass-through. More generally, such an adapter can adapt a sterile barrier or cover to a transmission component such as a pass-through.

[0115] As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, in one embodiment, the adapter 636 comprises a nose 638 and a nosemate 637. The nose 638 and nosemate 637 are coupled together in the diagrams shown in Figures 6A and 6B. A cover 614 may be trapped between the nosemate 637 and the nose 638, thereby forming a seal around the aperture opening in the cover. For example, before inserting a power tool into the internal cavity, the nosemate 637 may be positioned inside the internal cavity of the cover 614, while the nose 638 may be outside the cover 614.

[0116] The nosemate 637 may include a threaded hole 637A, as illustrated in Figure 6C. The nose 638 may include a corresponding threaded tubular shaft 638A, as illustrated in Figures 6D and 6E. The nosemate 637 can be coupled to the nose 638 by inserting the shaft 638A into the threaded hole 637A and rotating the nose 638 relative to the nosemate 637. The hole 637A and the shaft 638A may be mounted such that the opposing surfaces 637B and 638B of the nosemate 637 and nose 638 are separated by a sufficient distance, such as the distance d mentioned elsewhere, to form a seal around the aperture opening of the cover 614. Either or both of the nosemate 637 and the nose 638 may include protrusions around the outer rims 637C, 638C, respectively, to help connect the nosemate 637 to the nose 638. The arrangement of the adapter parts relative to the cover for the adapter assembly is illustrated in the exploded view shown in Figure 6F.

[0117] Although the nosemate 637 and nose 638 are shown to have a screw-type coupling, this is not required. The nosemate 637 and nose 638 may be coupled together using one or more of the following: press-fit, magnetic coupling, fastener, bayonet coupling, clip-retaining coupling, spring-loaded ball coupling, spring-loaded bar coupling, spring-loaded pin coupling, spring-retaining coupling, etc.

[0118] Pass-throughs such as 16, 416A, and 416B may extend through the nosemate 637 and nose 638. By connecting the pass-throughs, the nosemate 637 and nose 638 complete the seal of the aperture opening in the cover 614. The nose 638 may include a threaded collar 639. The corresponding threaded portion of the pass-through, such as a threaded bearing assembly configured to support the shaft of the pass-through which is coupled to the power tool inside the cover 614, may be coupled to the threaded collar 639. In this example, fully engaging the threads of the pass-through with the corresponding threads of the threaded collar 639 can indicate to the user that the pass-through is fully inserted into the adapter 636.

[0119] In some embodiments, gaskets may be bonded or otherwise provided to one or both of the opposing surfaces 637B and 638B of the nosemate 637 and nose 638. Advantageously, this allows the gaskets to be reusable, thereby potentially reducing the manufacturing cost of the cover 614. In such embodiments, the cover 614 may not include a gasket. In some embodiments, for applications where sterilization of the nosemate 637 and nose 638 is required or desirable, one or more gaskets bonded or otherwise provided to one or both of the opposing surfaces 637B and 638B are sterilizable between uses.

[0120] The pass-through 16 is preferably sterilized. In some embodiments, the pass-through may be reused multiple times or sterilized. However, in other embodiments, the pass-through is a single-use, disposable part of the power tool system.

[0121] Figures 6A to 6E show one embodiment of the adapter. Adapter 636 is a typical adapter for adapting a sterile barrier to transmission components such as pass-throughs 16, 416A, and 416B, which are configured to transmit motion from a power tool through the sterile barrier. Nose 638 and nosemate 637 illustrate a first portion of the adapter located on the first side of the sterile barrier and a second portion of the adapter located on the second side of the sterile barrier opposite the first side.

[0122] As perhaps most clearly shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the second part of the adapter is connectable to the first part so as to capture and compress a portion of the sterile barrier between the first and second parts, forming a compression seal around the aperture opening of the sterile barrier.

[0123] One or both of the first and second parts of the adapter may include a tubular shaft that extends through the aperture opening and connects the second part to the first part. Such a tubular shaft is visible, for example, in 637A in Figure 6C and 638A in Figure 6E.

[0124] The first portion of the adapter may include or be given a first surface, and the second portion may likewise include or be given a second surface, so as to engage and compress portions of the sterile barrier on the first and second sides, respectively. Surfaces 637B and 638B in Figures 6D and 6E are examples of such surfaces.

[0125] The adapter may include one or both of a compressible gasket on the first surface and a compressible gasket on the second surface. One or more such gaskets may be provided separately from the adapter. For example, the sterile barrier portion trapped between the first and second parts of the adapter may include one or more compressible gaskets, or have one or more compressible gaskets attached thereto.

[0126] The first and second parts of the adapter may be joined together via any of various types of couplings. For example, the first and second parts of the adapter may each contain cooperating components of one or more types of couplings, examples of which are given elsewhere here.

[0127] The adapter may include one or more fasteners for joining the second part to the first part. Additionally, one or more fasteners may be used to join parts of other multi-part components together.

[0128] As illustrated in 637C and 638C in Figures 6C and 6D, one or both of the first and second parts of the adapter may include an outer rim having a protrusion that helps to connect the second part to the first part. With respect to reusable adapters, the protrusion or other structure may also help to disconnect the second and first parts from each other.

[0129] The adapter may include a coupling structure for connecting to a transmission component. For example, either or both of the first and second parts of the adapter may include a coupling structure for connecting to a transmission component. The threaded collar 639 in Figure 6D is an example of such a coupling structure.

[0130] Many of the embodiments described herein refer to aperture openings in a sterile barrier or cover through which power or motion generated by a power tool can be transmitted. Such openings may be formed in the cover or sterile barrier or may be otherwise defined by the cover or sterile barrier, but in other embodiments, a multi-part device may create aperture openings in the cover or sterile barrier. This can give the cover or sterile barrier greater flexibility and applicability, as aperture openings can be made in any convenient location or place on the cover or sterile barrier. If aperture openings can be made, the sterile barrier does not have to be intended for use as a cover. This can allow medical staff to use any sterile material on hand, such as sterile gloves or gowns, as a sterile barrier for a power tool.

[0131] For example, consider Figures 7A to 7C. Figure 7A is a top view of a portion of a multi-part device according to another embodiment, and Figures 7B and 7C are a top view and a side plan view of other portions of the multi-part device, respectively.

[0132] Figure 7A shows an example of the first part 737 of a multi-part device. The first part 737 is to be positioned on the first side of the sterile barrier. Figures 7B and 7C show the second part 738 of the multi-part device. The second part 738 is positioned on the second side of the sterile barrier, opposite to the first side. The second part 738 can be coupled with the first part 737 to create an aperture opening in the sterile barrier and to capture a portion of the sterile barrier between the first and second parts, forming a seal around the aperture opening. For example, the outer surface of a column 738A extending axially from the surface 738B of the second part 738 and the inner surface of a column 737A extending axially from the surface 737B of the first part 737 may be mounted to bond the first and second parts together.

[0133] One or both of the first and second parts may include a cutter for creating an aperture opening. For example, a cutter 752 may be attached to or otherwise provided on the surface 738B to create an aperture opening when the first part 737 and the second part 738 are joined together. In one embodiment, a groove 750 is provided on the upper surface of column 737A of the first part 773 to receive at least a portion of the cutter 752 when the first part and the second part 738 are fully assembled, so that the cutter 752 creates an aperture opening by cutting the sterile barrier when the first part and the second part are joined together. This may be useful, for example, to allow the cutting of the aperture opening to be completed before a sterile portion is trapped between the first part 737 and the second part 738, thereby allowing the cut portion of the sterile barrier to be removed.

[0134] In embodiments in which the first and second parts of a multi-part device include cooperating components of a screw-type coupling, such as the screw faces described above, the cutter 752 may be configured to create an aperture opening during relative rotation between the first and second parts for joining the first and second parts together. This is just one example, and others are possible.

[0135] For example, the cutter and groove described above may be reversed, with the cutter provided at 750 and the groove at 752.

[0136] As another example, the first part of the multi-part device may include a first surface such as surface 737B, and the second part may include a second surface such as surface 738B, each engaging with a portion of the sterile barrier on the first and second sides, respectively, and one or both of the first and second surfaces include a protruding element that penetrates the sterile barrier to create an aperture opening. The protruding element may be, for example, a protruding ring, or may include a protruding ring, and may be provided on 750 and / or 752.

[0137] In some embodiments, a first portion of a multi-part device includes or provides a first surface, and a second portion includes or provides a second surface, which engage and compress with the sterile barrier portion on the first and second sides, respectively. In such embodiments, the seal is a compression seal between the first and second surfaces. Surfaces 737B and 738B are examples of surfaces that may be compression surfaces in some embodiments.

[0138] One or more compressible gaskets may be provided, for example, on a first surface and / or a second surface. Such one or more compressible gaskets may be provided separately, attached to the sterilization barrier, or be part of the sterilization barrier.

[0139] The screw connection between the first part 737 and the second part 738 is described above as an example. More generally, the first and second parts of a multi-part device may each include any of the various types of connections used to connect the first part to the second part, such as screw connections, press-fit connections, magnetic connections, bayonet connections, clip-retaining connections, spring-loaded ball connections, spring-loaded bar connections, spring-loaded pin connections, or spring-retaining connections. One or more fasteners may be used to connect the first part of a multi-part device to the second part, either further or instead.

[0140] Some of the components disclosed herein may be implemented as a multi-part device or as part of a multi-part device. For example, the first and second parts of a multi-part device may be parts of a transmission component for transmitting motion from a power tool across a sterile barrier, or may include parts of such a transmission component. Examples of multi-part transmission components are given elsewhere herein, and parts of such components may include features for enabling the formation of aperture openings in the sterile barrier.

[0141] The first and second parts of the multi-part device may be adapter parts for fitting the sterile barrier to the transmission component, or may include such adapter parts. Examples of multi-part adapters are given elsewhere here, and such adapter parts may include features that allow an aperture opening to be created in the sterile barrier.

[0142] The first part of the multi-part device may be or include a tool adapter that is coupled to a power tool, and the second part of the multi-part device may be or include a transmission component that is coupled to the tool adapter and transmits motion from the power tool through a sterile barrier. Again, examples of tool adapters and transmission components are given elsewhere here, and such adapters and transmission component parts may include features that allow an aperture opening to be created in the sterile barrier. Referring to Figure 4B as an example, when the pass-through 416B is coupled to a power tool 412, an aperture opening may be formed in the cover 414.

[0143] The multipart device may include other features disclosed herein. For example, one or both of the first part 737 and the second part 738 of the multipart device may include outer rims 737C, 738C having protrusions that facilitate joining the first part and the second part together and / or unjoining the second part and the first part from each other.

[0144] In some embodiments, the multi-part device may be assembled partially or entirely to create an aperture opening and then temporarily disassembled to remove the cut portion of the sterile barrier so that the cut portion does not interfere with the operation of the power tool. In other embodiments, removal of the cut portion is not necessary, and the cut portion does not interfere with or otherwise obstruct the operation of the power tool.

[0145] The above description focuses primarily on the structure and components of the power tool system. Other embodiments relate to the use of such a power tool system and are illustrated with reference to Figures 8A, 8B, and 9A-9D.

[0146] As illustrated in Figure 8A, a power tool is insertable into an internal cavity 815 defined by the cover through an opening 820, and a portion of the cover 814 surrounding the opening 820 is folded back to form a cuff or collar 823 before the power tool is inserted into the cover 814. The cuff 823 may have a height H, which is large enough to securely hold the cover 814 by placing a person's fingers and / or hand behind the cuff 823 between the inner surface of the cuff 823 and the opposing outer surface of the cover 814. This is illustrated in Figure 8B. The hand shown in Figure 8B is a schematic diagram only and does not necessarily represent an anatomically correct way of holding the cover 814. In some embodiments, the cuff 823 is at least about 1 inch or about 2.5 cm high. In some embodiments, the cuff 823 is at least about 1.5 inches or about 3.8 cm high. In some embodiments, the cuff 823 is greater than 1.5 inches or 3.8 cm high.

[0147] Typically, healthcare workers perform a scrub-in on the sterile surface of the cover, such as in an operating room. "Scrub-in" means sterilizing and cleaning a person's hands and / or arms on the sterile surface. Once the user has scrubbed, they typically wear sterile gloves, and the cover 814 can be held in place by the user positioning their fingers and / or hands under the cuff 823 between the outer surface of the cover 814 and the inner surface of the cuff 823, as described elsewhere here. Doing so does not affect the sterility of the outer surface of the cover 814 or the sterility of the user's fingers and / or hands. The cuff 823 also reduces the possibility of non-sterile power tools coming into contact with the sterile outer surface of the cover 814.

[0148] Once the power tool is inserted inside the cover 814 and into the internal cavity 815, a closure mechanism may be applied or operated in another manner to close the opening 820. Preferably, the closure mechanism is operable to maintain the opening 820 sealed throughout the normal operation and / or use of the power tool system throughout the surgical procedure. Furthermore, preferably, the closure mechanism maintains the opening 820 sealed when the closure mechanism is exposed to liquid, thereby preventing failure of the closure mechanism even when exposed to liquid, for example.

[0149] Figures 9A to 9D further illustrate the use of the cover system according to the embodiment.

[0150] In Figure 9A, the power tool 12 is inserted into the sterile cover 14. The cover 14 folds at its edges to form a cuff 23, and the interaction between the user and the cover 14 using the cuff 23 is perhaps more evident in Figure 9A than in Figure 8B. As shown, the user holds the cover 14 by the cuff 23 while the power tool 12 is inserted into the cover 14, without including the sterile outer surface of the cover 14. The cuff 23 reduces the possibility that the power tool 12, which may not be sterile, will come into contact with the sterile outer surface of the cover 14 when the power tool 12 is inserted into the cover. The cover 14 can be held, for example, by a sterile hand, in other words, the person holding the cover 14 has "scrubbed in," while the power tool 12 can be inserted by someone who does not have a sterile hand.

[0151] Once the power tool 12 is inserted into the cover 14, the cuff 23 may be deployed or spread open with the power tool inside the internal cavity 15, as illustrated in Figure 9B, and the opening through which the power tool was inserted may be closed, as illustrated in Figure 9C.

[0152] The pass-through 16 is connected to the power tool 12 in Figure 9D through the aperture opening 21. In some cases, the pass-through 16 is removed from the sterile package immediately before it is connected to the power tool 12. The pass-through 16 is held in one hand, while the other hand may be used to orient and hold the power tool 12 with respect to the aperture opening 21 so that the pass-through can be connected to the power tool 12 by moving the pass-through toward the power tool 12 in the shown example.

[0153] The examples shown in Figures 9A to 9D are intended solely for illustrative purposes. The method may include additional, fewer, and / or different operations performed in a similar or different order, depending on one or more factors such as the type of power tool 12, the type of pass-through 16, or whether the cover 12 is used with or without an adapter.

[0154] In general, methods conforming to the present disclosure may include orienting the opening of a disposable cover to receive a power tool into an internal cavity defined by the disposable cover, which has a sterile outer surface and further defines an aperture opening. An example is shown in Figure 9A, in which a sterile user holds the cover 14 with the opening at the top open to receive a power tool 12.

[0155] Furthermore, such a method may involve operating a closing mechanism to close the opening while the power tool's drive portion is adjacent to the aperture opening and the power tool is inside the internal cavity. This is illustrated in Figure 9C as an example.

[0156] In some embodiments, the method includes forming a compression seal around an aperture opening to seal the power tool within an internal cavity. In the example shown in Figure 9D, a compression seal may be formed when the pass-through 16 is coupled to the power tool through the aperture opening 21. This is an example of forming a compression seal by coupling a transmission component to the drive part of the power tool to transmit movement from the power tool through a disposable cover. The drive part of the power tool refers to the part driven by the power tool, which drives the transmission component to transmit movement through the cover.

[0157] Forming a compression seal may involve compressing one or more compressible gaskets surrounding the aperture opening, and various examples of compressible gasket arrangements are given elsewhere here. One or more compressible gaskets may be attached to the cover, be part of the cover, or be provided separately and positioned adjacent to the aperture opening.

[0158] Another embodiment of forming a compression seal involves joining multiple parts of a multipart device together so that a portion of a disposable cover is trapped between the parts of the multipart device. Examples of multipart devices and how such devices may be joined together are given elsewhere here.

[0159] Some embodiments may include applying pressure to the disposable cover so as to force air out of the internal cavity to the outside of the disposable cover via a check valve.

[0160] Power and motion are transmitted through the cover via an aperture opening, and this aperture opening may or may not be already formed when the cover or sterile barrier is used, or may or may not be provided in other ways. Thus, some embodiments include creating an aperture opening. Creating an aperture opening may be specific to other operations, such as joining together parts of a multi-part device after those parts are positioned on the opposite side of the cover or sterile barrier. For example, a multi-part device may be mounted in a cover so that an aperture opening is created before or after a power tool is inserted into an internal cavity.

[0161] The actions or operations described in the above illustrative methods primarily relate to actions or operations that may be performed by a sterile user as described in the descriptions of Figures 9A to 9D. At least some of these operations, and / or other operations such as positioning the power tool within the internal cavity with the drive portion of the power tool adjacent to the aperture opening, may be performed by another user and potentially non-sterile users.

[0162] Features that may relate to these operations and / or other operations or to other embodiments are described further below.

[0163] Referring here to Figure 2A as an example, the closing mechanism includes an adhesive band 24 extending across a first portion of the cover 14 and a sealing flap 25 extending across a second portion of the cover 14. In the example shown, the sealing flap 25 is a longitudinally extending sealing flap and the adhesive band 24 is a longitudinally extending adhesive band, but other orientations or arrangements are possible.

[0164] When the sealing flap 25 is engaged with the adhesive band 24, the sealing flap 25 is bonded to the cover 14, thereby sealing and closing the opening 20. The sealing flap 25 may be folded over along its length, for example, so that it engages with the adhesive band 24. Preferably, the adhesive band 24 is covered with a removable non-adhesive layer 24A until the opening 20 is closed. For example, the removable non-adhesive layer 24A may be removed after the power tool has been inserted into the cover 14.

[0165] The adhesive band 24 may include, for example, one or more of the following: a suitable adhesive, double-sided tape, etc. In a preferred embodiment, exposure of the adhesive band 24 and the sealing flap 25 to a liquid does not cause the sealing flap 25 to de-adhere from the adhesive band 24.

[0166] The strength of the bond between the sealing flap 25 and the cover 14 may be increased by having multiple adhesive points between the adhesive band 24 and the sealing flap 25. For example, the adhesive band 24 may have a width greater than the width of the sealing flap 25. In such embodiments, the sealing flap 25 may be folded over multiple times along its length, for example, until the entire adhesive band 24 is engaged, so that it engages with the adhesive band 24 multiple times. In some embodiments, the adhesive band 24 has a width at least twice the width of the sealing flap 25. Also, folding the sealing flap 25 multiple times can reduce the possibility of liquid entering through the opening 20 after the opening is closed.

[0167] Figure 2A shows the sealing flap 25 and adhesive band 24 having a uniform width, but this is not mandatory. In some embodiments, the width of a particular portion of the adhesive band 24 and / or sealing flap 25 may be increased relative to other portions of the adhesive band 24 and / or sealing flap 25. For example, portions of the adhesive band 24 and / or sealing flap 25 that have a higher probability of failure, for example, by separating from each other, may have an increased width relative to the rest of the adhesive band 24 and / or sealing flap 25.

[0168] As described elsewhere here, the cover, such as cover 14, may be a disposable sterile cover intended for use in one surgical procedure and / or on one patient. To prevent or deter the reuse of cover 14 for multiple surgical procedures with different patients, the adhesion between the sealing flap 25 and the adhesive band 24 may be designed to be strong enough that the removal of a power tool from cover 14 requires at least partial destruction of cover 14. Once at least a portion of cover 14 is destroyed, cover 14 can no longer be used and a new cover 14 must be obtained. In this sense, the closing mechanism may be arranged, designed, or otherwise configured to permanently close the opening 20. For example, the adhesion between the sealing flap 25 and the adhesive band 24 may be strong enough that the removal of a power tool from cover 14 requires, for example, cutting open cover 14 with scissors, tearing open cover 14, or damaging cover 14 in any other way that it cannot be reused. However, this is not required. In some embodiments, the sealing flap 25 may be peeled off from the adhesive band 24, for example, to correct the position of the sealing flap 25 relative to the adhesive band 24.

[0169] Optional tabs 26 may assist the user in folding back the sealing flap 25 while reducing the likelihood of the user getting caught between one or more fingers between the sealing flap 25 and the adhesive band 24. One or more tabs may be provided and may be positioned along the edge of the sealing flap as shown. Such tabs can be used to facilitate folding the sealing flap 25 toward the adhesive band 24.

[0170] The exemplary cover 14 includes tabs 26 at each of the opposite longitudinal ends of the sealing flap 25. The user may hold each tab 26 with a different hand. Pulling each tab 26 toward the adhesive band 24 causes the sealing flap 25 to fold toward the adhesive band 24. However, the cover 14 may have any number of tabs 26 positioned at any location along the sealing flap 25. In some embodiments, the cover 14 has a single large tab 26 along the upper edge of the sealing flap 25, as shown in the diagram in Figure 2A. In such embodiments, the sealing flap 25 can be folded by pulling the tab 26 toward the opposite end of the cover 14.

[0171] In some embodiments, either or both of the sealing flap 25 and the adhesive band 24 are replaced or extended by an alternative closing mechanism, such as the following: ZIP-LOC TM A tongue-shaped and groove-shaped closure similar to that of a type closure; · VELCRO TM Hook and loop closures, such as type closures; • Pull strap; • One or more snaps; • Magnetic seal; • Belt and buckle design; and • Zipper seal.

[0172] These are examples of closing mechanisms, any one of which may be attached to the cover in some embodiments. One or more closing mechanisms may be integrated with the cover or be part of the cover, or the cover may otherwise include one or more closing mechanisms.

[0173] The cover 14 may be formed to generally conform to the shape of the power tool. For example, if the power tool is a drill, a power screwdriver, an impact driver, or another tool with a handle that extends roughly perpendicular to the body, the cover 14 may have a generally L-shaped configuration as shown in Figure 2A. In this type of power tool and cover configuration, the body of the power tool fits into one arm of the L-shaped cover, and the handle of the tool fits into the other arm of the L-shaped cover. In some embodiments, the arm of the cover 14 that receives the body of the power tool extends roughly perpendicular to the opening 20, so that when the cover 14 is held open with the opening 20 facing upwards, the arm of the cover 14 that receives the body of the power tool extends roughly perpendicularly.

[0174] The cover 14 may be sized to accommodate the power tool. Covers 14 of various sizes may be provided for use with various power tools. In some embodiments, the cover 14 measures approximately 30 cm x 25 cm when laid flat, as shown in Figure 2A.

[0175] Preferably, the cover 14 is shaped to fit the power tool. Excess space between the cover 14 and the power tool can reduce tactile sensitivity, thereby reducing the user's ability to control the power tool. For example, excess material in the cover 14 can hinder the user's ability to precisely control the trigger of the power tool. The cover 14 may include one or more straps configured to allow the user to adapt the cover 14 to the shape of a particular power tool placed inside the internal cavity of the cover 14.

[0176] For example, one or more straps 27 may be provided. Such one or more straps may be used to collect excess portions of the cover 14 and / or to shape the cover 14 into a desired form. As shown in Figure 2A, for example, the cover 14 may have two straps 27. Strap 27A may be close to the portion of the cover 14 intended to receive the handle of the power tool, and strap 27B may be close to the portion of the cover 14 intended to receive the body of the power tool.

[0177] The straps 27 are attached to the cover 14 in the example shown. However, each strap 27 includes a removable end that can be removed from the cover 14. The removable end of each strap 27 may initially be attached to the cover 14. By removing the removable end of the strap 27, wrapping and / or repositioning the strap roughly in close contact or tightly around a portion of the power tool, and then reattaching the removed end to the cover 14, a portion of the cover 14 can be made to fit a portion of the power tool. This is perhaps best illustrated in Figure 1A, where the straps 27 are wrapped around a portion of the power tool 12 so that each portion of the cover conforms to the shape of the power tool. In this way, the straps 27 can be used to shape at least a portion of the cover to conform to the shape of the power tool.

[0178] The straps 27 may be bonded to the cover 14. For example, referring to Figures 10A and 10B, an adhesive layer 28 may bond the straps 27 to the cover 14. The adhesive layer 28 may include one or more of the following: a suitable adhesive, double-sided tape, etc. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer 28 may be replaced by heat welding or the like. In Figure 10A, the straps 27 are bonded to each other, which illustrates how the straps may be positioned in packaging, during shipping, or otherwise when the cover is not in use. The straps 27 may be at least separated from each other, potentially completely separated from the cover, and may be rearranged as needed or desired, to better fit one or more parts of the cover to one or more parts of the tool.

[0179] Furthermore, the detachable ends 27' of the strap 27 may include an adhesive layer 28. In such embodiments, the detachable ends 27' may initially be attached to a non-adhesive backing layer 28A, as shown in example in Figure 10B, and then detached and rearranged to better fit one or more parts of the cover to one or more parts of the tool. Shipping the cover 14 with the detachable ends 27' of each strap 27 attached to the non-adhesive backing layer 28A or to each other, as shown in Figure 10A, can reduce the possibility of the detachable ends 27' of the straps 27 adhering to the cover 14, and further, or instead, can reduce the possibility of puncture or tearing that may result from the detachable ends 27' having to be removed directly from the cover 14.

[0180] Strap 27 illustrates an example of a cover fitting mechanism that can operate to conform a portion of the cover to the shape of a power tool. Such a cover fitting mechanism may be attached to the cover. The cover fitting mechanism may be integrated with the cover, be part of the cover, or the cover may otherwise include the cover fitting mechanism. The strap is an example of a cover fitting mechanism and may include a detachable end that can be detached from the cover, wrapped around a portion of the cover, and reattached to the cover in order to conform a portion of the cover to the shape of a power tool. The detachable end of the strap may include an adhesive layer or may be attached to the cover by a non-adhesive backing layer.

[0181] To avoid tearing or punctures, the cover 14 may be made of a material resistant to puncture and tearing. For example, the material may use one or more standards as guidance, such as EN 388:2016 or AAMI PB70. If the cover 14 has holes or tears, the sterile barrier that the cover 14 is intended to provide is broken. Either or both of puncture resistance and tear resistance may be quantified using industry standards such as ASTM F1342 Standard Test Method for Protective Clothing Material Resistance to Puncture. Ideally, the cover 14 is classifiable or qualified as puncture-resistant, tear-resistant, or both. In some embodiments, the cover 14 has the same or greater puncture and / or tear resistance as sterile gloves worn by healthcare workers.

[0182] Preferably, the cover 14 is sufficiently stretchable so that it can stretch at least to some extent when it is subjected to impact. The cover 14 does not necessarily need to be elastic. For example, the cover 14 does not necessarily need to return to its original state after being subjected to impact or when a power tool is removed from the cover.

[0183] Cover 14 may be made of one or more of the following materials, or may contain one or more of the following materials: (Preferably) polyethylene (PE) film; • Polyurethane (PU) film; Nonwoven fabrics such as spunlaced, spunlaid heat bonded, meltblown, spunbond, and airlaid, or combinations thereof such as spunbond-meltblown-spunbond (SMS); • Silicone; and • Hard plastic.

[0184] In some embodiments, the material forming the cover 14, such as a PE film, is thin and has a thickness of less than about 0.3 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness of the cover 14 is in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm, for example, 0.15 mm.

[0185] Increasing the strength of cover 14 can improve its puncture resistance and / or tear resistance. Strength can be increased, for example, by making cover 14 from a thicker, more rigid, or stronger material. However, this may increase the cost of cover 14. Furthermore, increasing the strength of cover 14 may reduce or otherwise affect one or more properties of the cover, such as its flexibility and / or tactile properties.

[0186] The flexibility and / or tactile properties of the cover 14 are important. Referring to Figure 1A, the flexibility and / or tactile properties of the cover may be important because the user needs to be able to grip the power tool 12 through the cover 14, and to be able to precisely position the power tool 12 through the cover 14 and operate the trigger of the power tool 12. The flexibility and / or tactile properties of the cover 14 can be increased, for example, by making the cover 14 thinner, more flexible, and / or by making it from a softer material. Increased flexibility and / or tactile properties of the cover 14 can improve the user's ability to grip and operate the power tool 12.

[0187] Improving the puncture and / or tear resistance of cover 14 generally conflicts with the desire to improve the flexibility and / or tactile properties of cover 14. In preferred embodiments, the desired puncture and / or tear resistance is balanced with the desired flexibility and / or tactile properties of cover 14.

[0188] In some embodiments, different parts of the cover 14 are made of different materials. For example, parts of the cover 14 intended to surround the grip and / or trigger of the power tool 12 may be made of a flexible and tactile material. In one embodiment, the trigger portion of the cover 14 surrounding the trigger area of ​​the power tool, or the trigger portion of the cover 14 positioned adjacent to the trigger area of ​​the power tool, is more tactile than other parts of the cover. The remaining parts may be made of a more robust material that is less flexible and tactile but more puncture-resistant and / or tear-resistant.

[0189] Additionally or alternatively, the thickness of the cover 14 may be increased in portions of the cover 14 that are expected to have a higher risk of puncture and / or tearing. In some embodiments, such portions include two or more material layers. The material of each layer may be the same as or different from the other layers. In some embodiments, the increased thickness mitigates and / or absorbs the impact of objects in contact with the power tool system 10. In some embodiments, the thickened portion acts as a bumper.

[0190] In some embodiments, the cover 14 or a selected portion of the cover 14 may include a multilayer structure. In some embodiments, the multilayer structure extends over the entire cover 14, and the cover comprises multiple layers. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the cover 14 is made of a first layer, and the outer surface of the cover 14 is made of a second layer. The first and second layers may be bonded together. The first and second layers may be the same or different, and accordingly, the inside of the cover 14 may be different from the outside of the cover, or may include such different layers. In some embodiments, the first and second layers have one or more different properties, such as different colors and / or different opacities. In some embodiments, the first and second layers have the same color, opacity, and / or one or more other common properties that are the same. In some embodiments, two or more different portions of the cover may comprise different numbers of layers.

[0191] Referring again to Figure 2A, in some embodiments, the multilayer structure of the cover 14 creates winding paths through the opening 20 and / or aperture opening 21, reducing the likelihood of the sterilization barrier being breached. For example, the sealing flap 25 may include multiple layers, which may be folded back and engaged with the adhesive band 24. In some embodiments, the multiple layers of the cover 14 may be trapped between compression members such as compression members 317A, 317B shown in Figures 3A to 3E. For example, a liquid would need to pass through or penetrate each layer before entering or exiting the internal cavity of the cover in such embodiments.

[0192] Additionally or alternatively, a more robust secondary cover may be placed on parts of the cover that are expected to have a higher risk of puncture and / or tearing, such as those that are likely to come into contact with scalpels or other tools. For example, a sterilized secondary cover 18, as illustrated in Figure 1A, may be placed over the top of cover 14.

[0193] The secondary cover 18 includes an aperture opening 18a. The pass-through 16 may extend through the aperture opening 18a. The opposite end 18b of the secondary cover 18 may extend over the body of the power tool 12 and engage with the opposite end of the power tool 12, as shown in Figure 1A.

[0194] The secondary cover 18 may be made of one or more materials such as silicone, rubber, and vinyl, or may contain one or more of these materials. In some embodiments, the secondary cover 18 includes a hard shell configured to fit into a part of the power tool system 10. The secondary cover 18 may be disposable, sterilizable, or reusable.

[0195] Optionally, the cover 14 may include one or more molded corners, as exemplified by 29 in Figure 2A. Such molded corners 29 may provide more space within the internal cavity of the cover 14 than corners that include edges converging at a vertex. This may, for example, reduce tension at the seams of the cover 14 when a power tool is inserted into the cover 14, and / or provide more space for the trigger of the power tool 12 to move. The molded corners 29 may be of any shape other than points or vertices. The molded corners 29 may be, for example, circular, elliptical, or linear. In some embodiments, the cover 14 includes at least one molded corner 29 adjacent to a trigger area positioned next to the trigger of the power tool.

[0196] The inner and / or outer surfaces of cover 14 may have any of a variety of specific finishes. The inner and outer finishes may be the same or different.

[0197] The inner surface of the cover 14 may be made of one or more materials, for example, lint-free and static-free. Preferably, the inner surface is finished to allow for easy insertion of a power tool, so that the inner surface does not, for example, obstruct the insertion of a power tool.

[0198] Furthermore, the outer surface of the cover 14 may be one or more of the following: for example, lint-free and non-static. Additionally or alternatively, the outer surface may be designed to reduce adhesion of the outer surface to itself. Additionally or alternatively, the outer surface, or for example, the gripping portion of the outer surface, may be designed so that the cover 14 does not become slippery when covered with a liquid such as blood or saline solution. In some embodiments, the outer surface, or for example, the gripping portion of the outer surface, may be designed to absorb liquid to enhance grip, such as making the cover 14 less slippery when held in the presence of liquid. In some embodiments, the outer surface is coated with a biocompatible moisture-wicking coating.

[0199] The antistatic properties of the inner and / or outer surfaces of the cover 14 can, advantageously, reduce the possibility of fine particles, such as contaminants, being electrostatically attracted to the cover 14.

[0200] In some embodiments, the inner and / or outer surfaces of the cover 14 are coated with an antimicrobial coating, or one or both of these surfaces include an antimicrobial coating in other ways.

[0201] In some embodiments, the cover 14 is constructed using a pattern, such as a two-dimensional pattern. The pattern may be cut out from a piece of material, for example, using a punching machine. The pattern can be folded into the desired shape of the cover 14. Edges that come into contact with each other may be welded together, glued together, sewn together, or otherwise joined. In some embodiments, the pattern is folded so that the portion of the cover 14 including the aperture opening 21 and one or more gaskets 22 lies flat in the folded cover 14. This can prevent wrinkles from forming in the cover 14 in the area of ​​the aperture opening 21.

[0202] In some embodiments, the cover 14 is manufactured using a molding process. For example, the cover 14 may be manufactured by dip molding, injection molding, or the like. The molding process may use an elastomer compound.

[0203] Preferably, the seams of the cover 14 are designed to be narrow. In some embodiments, the seams of the cover 14 have a width of 2 mm or less, for example, 1.5 mm. In some embodiments, the seams cross the trigger area of ​​the power tool. Wide seams can impede the tactile accessibility of the trigger area.

[0204] The power tool is preferably inserted into the cover 12 from the rear of the cover, for example, through the opening 20 as shown in Figure 2A, or enters the cover 12 in any other way. However, in some embodiments, the power tool may instead be inserted into the cover from the bottom or top of the cover, or enter the cover in any other way.

[0205] The cover 14 may be designed to withstand a variety of temperatures. For example, the cover 14 may be designed to be usable in the ambient temperature range expected in an operating room. In some embodiments, the cover 14 is designed to be usable at temperatures from 0°C to 40°C.

[0206] In some embodiments, air may be removed from the inside of the cover 14 to better fit the cover 14 to the power tool. For example, a mechanism such as a vacuum may remove air before sealing the aperture opening 21 and / or opening 20 of the cover 14. In some embodiments, the cover 14 includes a check valve 40 which allows air to be shut out from the inside of the cover 14. In some embodiments, the check valve 40 includes a filter which prevents substances such as particles, spores, bacteria, or mold from leaking out of the internal cavity of the cover 14. The check valve 40 is preferably positioned so as not to interfere with the operation of the power tool inside the cover 14. The cover 14 may be fitted with a check valve. The check valve may be integrated with the cover 14, or it may be part of the cover 14, or the cover may otherwise include such a valve.

[0207] In some embodiments, the cover 14 includes markings. For example, a removable non-adhesive layer 24A covering the adhesive band 24 may include markings indicating how the cover 14 is closed. In another example, the cover 14 may include a brand. In yet another example, the cover 14 may include markings that instruct or explain to the user how to operate the power tool. The markings may, for example, be printed directly onto the cover 14.

[0208] In some embodiments, the cover 14 includes a rigid or hard portion. In such embodiments, the portion of the cover 14 that surrounds or is positioned adjacent to the trigger area of ​​the power tool may be made of a more flexible material to potentially allow for more precise operation of the power tool trigger.

[0209] Preferably, the cover 14 may be packaged compactly and / or flat. This can reduce, for example, the spatial footprint of the cover 14, the space required to store the cover 14, and / or transportation costs.

[0210] The cover 14 can be folded flat to form a compact package 50, as shown in Figure 11F. Figures 11A to 11E show exemplary folding patterns, which can be used, for example, to fold the cover 14 into a compact, flat package 50.

[0211] In Figure 11A, the portion of the cover 14 surrounding the opening 20 is located at the top of the shown figure and can be optionally folded back to form a cuff 23. In such cases, the cover 14 is packaged together with the pre-formed cuff 23. This can advantageously reduce the time required to prepare the power tool system before the surgical procedure, as it eliminates the need to spend additional time forming the cuff 23.

[0212] In Figure 11B, the side walls of the portion of the cover 14 adjacent to the aperture opening and gaskets 22A and 22B are folded inward, for example, at least partially, to form accordion folds. The accordion folds may allow a portion of the cover 14 to be folded flat relative to the rest of the cover 14, as shown by 1102 and 1104 in Figure 11A. Folding that portion flat may reduce the possibility of damaging gaskets 22A and 22B, for example, while the cover 14 is being stored and / or transported. The accordion folds are generally shown by 1106 in Figure 11B.

[0213] Additionally or alternatively, the bellows-like folds may be sustained. "Sustained" means that inserting a power tool inside the cover 14 does not completely destroy the bellows-like folds. Sustained bellows-like folds can, for example, remove any slack in the cover 14 when a power tool is inserted inside the cover 14.

[0214] Additionally or alternatively, bellows-like folds may help to conform the cover 14 to the shape of the power tool. Bellows-like folds may, for example, shorten the length of the portion of the cover 14 that receives the body of the power tool. Bellows-like folds may extend only as long as necessary to conform to the body of the power tool. A power tool with a longer body may have more bellows-like folds than a tool with a shorter body.

[0215] In some embodiments, the sidewall is folded inward along one point, forming one bellows-like fold on each side. In some embodiments, the sidewall may be folded inward along two or more points, forming two or more bellows-like folds on each side.

[0216] Figures 11C and 11D illustrate examples of procedures for reducing the spatial footprint of a folded cover. In Figure 11C, the cover 14 is folded multiple times in the longitudinal direction to reduce the overall width of the folded cover. In Figure 11D, the cover 14 is folded multiple times in the transverse direction, as indicated by arrows 1108 and 1110, to reduce the overall length of the folded cover.

[0217] Figure 11E shows the cover 14, which is folded flat according to the folding pattern indicated by arrows 1108 and 1110 in Figure 11D. The folded cover has a reduced spatial footprint compared to the unfolded cover 14.

[0218] The dashed arrow 1111 in Figure 11D indicates another example of a folding step that may be performed in some embodiments. According to the exemplary folding step shown in 1111, the portion of the cover 14, including the aperture opening and gaskets 22A, 22B, is folded in the opposite direction to the direction shown in 1110 in Figure 11D, so that when the cover is further folded as shown in 1108, that portion of the cover is positioned between the other portions of the cover.

[0219] The folded cover may be placed in a sealed protective package 50 as shown in Figure 11F, regardless of whether it is folded as shown, for example, 1110 or 1111 in Figure 11D.

[0220] The outer surfaces of the package 50, such as the top surface 52 and bottom surface 54 of the package 50, may be peeled off from each other to expose the cover 14. This may allow a user to remove the sterile cover 14 from the package 50 without the sterile cover 14 coming into contact with one or more non-sterile outer surfaces of the package 50. Typically, a non-sterile user peels off the outer surfaces of the package 50, while a sterile user, such as a scrubbing user, removes the sterile cover 14.

[0221] Cover 14 and / or other disposable parts described herein may be sterilized in a manner compatible with the materials of one or more of the cover 14 or other parts. For example, cover 14 may be sterilized using ETO (ethylene oxide sterilization), radiation, and / or other sterilization processes. In some embodiments, cover 14 may be sterilized after being wrapped in a protective package such as package 50. Reusable parts described herein, such as pass-throughs 16, 416A, 416B in some embodiments, may be sterilized using steam.

[0222] The cover 14 may have a shelf life of several years. In some embodiments, the cover 14 has a shelf life of 5 years. In some embodiments, the cover 14 has a shelf life of 10 years.

[0223] As described elsewhere here, parts of the cover 14 may be thicker than other parts of the cover 14. In some embodiments, one or more gaskets, as illustrated by 22 in Figure 2A, are provided by having multiple layers around the aperture opening 21, thereby increasing the thickness of the cover 14 around the aperture opening 21, and / or similarly. This may have advantages such as facilitating the manufacture of the cover 14 and / or reducing costs.

[0224] Embodiments of power tool systems, covers, cover systems, parts, components, and methods have been described above primarily in relation to surgical applications for human patients. However, the embodiments described herein may be applied further or instead to other applications where it is desirable to enclose power tools with a barrier, such as veterinary applications, tissue harvesting applications, food processing applications, or applications where it is necessary to protect power tools from their external environment.

[0225] Other variations are also possible. For example, Figure 12 is a schematic perspective view of another power tool system 1210, illustrating a further example of pass-through. The power tool system 1210 includes a cover 1213 defining an aperture opening 1213A, a power tool 12 located inside the cover 1213, and an assembly 1211 that is detachably coupled to the power tool through the aperture opening.

[0226] Figure 13 is an enlarged perspective view of an exemplary assembly 1211, which includes a traction pin 1215, an adapter 1216, and an optional cap 1218. The adapter 1216 may be coupled to the corresponding receiving end of the power tool 12 to axially hold the traction pin 1215 relative to the power tool 1212. Coupling the adapter 1216 to the receiving end of the power tool 1212 may also seal the aperture opening 1213A (Figure 12) through which the traction pin 1215 passes when the power tool system 1210 is assembled. The optional cap 1218 covers the sharp tip of the traction pin 1215 to prevent, or at least reduce, the likelihood of, accidental puncture or other injury or damage to the tissue before the traction pin 1215 is inserted into the patient's tissue.

[0227] The components of the traction pin assembly 1211 are typically sterilized. At least some components of the traction pin assembly 1211 may be single-use disposable components that are discarded after use on one patient, and the traction pin assembly may also include one or more reusable components that can be sterilized between uses on different patients.

[0228] In some embodiments, the traction pin assembly 1211 is packaged pre-assembled, with the adapter 1216 and cap 1218 already attached to the traction pin 1215. In some embodiments, the traction pin assembly 1211 is packed in a sterile package.

[0229] The optional cap 1218 and / or adapter 1216 of the traction pin assembly 1211 may be made of suitable plastic, for example. In some embodiments, such parts of the traction pin assembly 1211 are manufactured using techniques and processes such as injection molding, 3D printing, and / or the like.

[0230] The adapter 1216 includes a feature that engages with a corresponding feature on the receiving end of the power tool 1212 to couple the adapter to the power tool. The adapter 1216 may help to maintain the end 1215A of the traction pin 1215 within the coupling mechanism of the power tool 1212 while the traction pin is inserted into the patient's tissue. Once the adapter 1216 is coupled to the receiving end of the power tool 1212, the adapter may be fixed axially and therefore may not move axially relative to the power tool until the adapter is detached from the power tool. Furthermore, the adapter 1216 may seal the aperture opening 1213A of the sterile cover 1213 through which the traction pin 1215 passes. To potentially improve such a seal, one or more compressible gaskets 1213B may be provided around the aperture opening 1213A. Further or instead, a cover adapter, such as those disclosed above as examples with reference to Figures 6A-6E, may be provided on 1213B.

[0231] Figure 14A is a perspective view of an exemplary adapter 1416, which can be implemented in a power tool system such as the exemplary power tool system 1210 in Figure 12.

[0232] The hole 1430 in the adapter 1416 allows the tow pin to pass through the adapter. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the hole 1430 engages frictionally with the tow pin. However, the friction between the inner surface of the hole 1430 and the tow pin is small and does not hinder or substantially impede the rotation of the tow pin within the hole. In some embodiments, the friction between the inner surface of the hole 1430 and the tow pin is not uniform along the entire length of the hole 1430. In some embodiments, the friction between the inner surface of the hole 1430 and the tow pin is highest at the end 1430A of the hole.

[0233] The diameter of the hole 1430 is typically less than the diameter or width of the traction pin, and the adapter 1416 is intended to be used with the traction pin. Furthermore, the inner surface of the adapter 1416 typically contacts the end face opposite to the pin end shown as 1215A in Figures 12 and 13 when the adapter 1416 is coupled to a power tool. These features advantageously help to hold the traction pin axially relative to the power tool.

[0234] The hole 1430 may be formed within a structure 1431 designed to support the traction pin by preventing lateral movement of the traction pin relative to the adapter 1416, for example. The structure 1431 preferably extends longitudinally along the portion of the traction pin through which the hole 1430 is installed. The structure 1431 may extend, for example, 0.1 cm to 1.5 cm. The hole 1430 may extend entirely longitudinally through the structure 1431. In some embodiments, the hole 1430 has a non-uniform diameter, as in the case of a conical structure as shown in Figure 14A, but this is not required, and the structure 1431 may be, for example, cylindrical, hexagonal, or other shapes.

[0235] Inserting the adapter 1416 into the receiving end of a power tool may, for example, cause the locking pin of the receiving end of the power tool to slide along the bevel 1432 illustrated in Figure 14B. Once the adapter 1416 is fully inserted, the locking pin may fall into the recess 1433, thereby locking the adapter 1416 relative to the receiving end of the power tool. In some embodiments, the bevel 1432 is configured such that the adapter 1416 is pushed into and twisted into the receiving end before it is locked against the receiving end of the power tool. Similar arrangements are also disclosed herein, for example, for pass-throughs 16, 416A, and 416B.

[0236] Furthermore, coupling the adapter 1416 to the power tool may automatically position the adapter surface 1434, as illustrated in Figure 14C, to form a seal around the aperture opening of the cover, at a sufficient distance from the power tool or other parts of the power tool system.

[0237] As with other pass-through embodiments disclosed herein, the adapter 1416 in the traction pin assembly may include one or more guide projections 1435. Insertion of the projections 1435 into corresponding recesses in the receiving end of the power tool allows the adapter 1416 to be positioned in a desired direction relative to the power tool.

[0238] The traction pin assembly 1211, together with adapters 1216 and 1416, is another example of a pass-through that transmits movement from a power tool inside a cover to outside the cover. Features disclosed herein in connection with other embodiments may be implemented in a traction pin assembly or its components, and similarly, features of the traction pin assembly disclosed herein may be implemented in other embodiments. For example, the adapters 1216 and 1416 may be multi-part devices including a first and second part that can be coupled together to capture a sterile barrier or a portion of a cover to form a compression seal around an aperture opening, or to create an aperture opening and form a seal around an aperture opening. The end 1215A of the traction pin 1215 may be shaped to couple with a power tool coupling mechanism 42 shown in Figure 4D in connection with another embodiment, or may be configured in other ways. Configurations in which the movable parts of the pass-through itself, such as the traction pin 1215, are a tool driven by a power tool, or include a tool driven by a power tool, may be implemented in other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0239] Other features and variations in the cover system and its components are also possible. Further examples include various sealing components or elements that are not explicitly shown in the drawings to avoid further confusion. O-rings, gaskets, or other types of sealing components may be mounted or positioned around the outer diameter portion of the pass-through to seal the outer diameter portion against the conical or cylindrical inner surface of the rigid cover or sterile barrier adapter. The sealing components may be provided, or further, as internal O-rings, gaskets, or other types of sealing components in the holes of the cover adapter, and may be compressible or capable of sealing at least around the cylindrical or conical pass-through. One or more sealing components may be provided inside the pass-through to seal around, for example, one or more bearings 572, 574 and shaft 576 in Figure 5B.

[0240] Other modifications may be or could become apparent to a person skilled in the art based on this disclosure.

[0241] Interpretation of terms Unless the context clearly requires a different approach, throughout the specification and claims: The words "include" and "contain" should be interpreted in a comprehensive sense, not in an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is, they should be interpreted as "includes, but is not limited to"; "Connected," "joined," or variations thereof mean any direct or indirect connection or joining between two or more elements; the joining or connection between elements may be physical, logical, or a combination thereof; • The terms “here,” “above,” “below,” and similar terms used to describe this specification refer to this specification as a whole, and not to any specific part of this specification; • "Or" covers all interpretations of the word in relation to a list of two or more items, including: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of items in the list; Furthermore, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include the meaning of any appropriate plural form.

[0242] The terms indicating direction, such as “longitudinal,” “horizontal,” “horizontal,” “upward,” “downward,” “forward,” “backward,” “inward,” “outward,” “left,” “right,” “front,” “rear,” “up,” “down,” “upward,” and “downward,” used in this specification and the attached claims, depend on the specific orientation of the described and shown apparatus. The subject matter described herein may envision a variety of alternative orientations. Therefore, these terms indicating direction are not strictly defined and should not be interpreted narrowly.

[0243] For example, while processes or blocks, such as operations related to methods or steps in folding procedures, are presented in a predetermined order, alternative examples may execute routines with steps in a different order or employ systems with blocks in a different order, and some processes or blocks may be deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and / or modified to provide alternatives or subcombinations. Each of these processes or blocks may be implemented in a variety of different ways. Furthermore, while the processes or blocks are shown to be executed in series, they may instead be executed in parallel or at different times.

[0244] Furthermore, while the elements are shown to be executed sequentially, they may instead be executed simultaneously or in a different order. Therefore, the following claims are intended to be interpreted as including all such variations within their intended scope.

[0245] Where a component such as an assembly, device, or portion is referred to above, unless otherwise indicated, a reference to that component, including any reference to a "means", shall be construed to include as an equivalent of that component any component that performs the function of the described component, and which is a functional equivalent, including any component that is not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure that performs the function in the illustrated exemplary embodiments of the invention set forth in that context.

[0246] Specific examples of systems, methods, and devices are described herein for purposes of explanation. These are merely examples. The technology provided herein is applicable to systems other than the exemplary systems described above. Many alterations, modifications, additions, omissions, and permutations are possible in the practice of this invention. This invention includes various modifications to the described embodiments, which modifications will be apparent to a skilled artisan, and include modifications obtained by: substituting features, elements and / or acts with equivalent features, elements and / or acts; mixing and matching features, elements and / or acts from different embodiments; combining features, elements and / or acts from embodiments described herein with features, elements and / or acts of other technologies; and / or omitting combinations of features, elements and / or acts from the described embodiments.

[0247] Various features are described herein as being present in "some embodiments". Such features are not mandatory, and may not be present in all embodiments. Embodiments of the invention may include zero, any one, or any combination of two or more of such features. This is limited only to the extent that some of such features are incompatible with other of such features, and in that sense, it would be impossible for a person skilled in the art to construct a practical embodiment combining such incompatible features. Therefore, the description that "some embodiments" have feature A and "some embodiments" have feature B should be construed as explicitly indicating that the inventor also contemplates embodiments combining feature A and feature B, unless the specification otherwise states that feature A and feature B are fundamentally incompatible.

[0248] Accordingly, the following appended claims and any claims introduced hereafter are intended to be construed to include all modifications, rearrangements, additions, omissions, and subcombinations that can be reasonably inferred. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments set forth in the examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the entire specification.

Claims

1. A disposable cover system for power tools, A cover having a sterile outer surface, wherein the cover defines an internal cavity, an opening through which a power tool can be inserted into the internal cavity, and an aperture opening through which a pass-through for transmitting motion generated by the power tool from the inside of the internal cavity to the outside of the cover extends, A closing mechanism for closing the aforementioned opening, A compressible gasket surrounding the aperture opening, A check valve that allows air to pass from the internal cavity to the outside of the cover, A disposable cover system equipped with [features / equipment].

2. The disposable cover system according to claim 1, wherein the compressible gasket is attached to the cover, or the cover includes the compressible gasket.

3. The compressible gasket includes a sterile compressible gasket placed on the sterile outer surface of the cover, The disposable cover system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a further compressible gasket surrounding the aperture opening and disposed on the inner surface of the cover inside the internal cavity.

4. The disposable cover system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the compressible gasket extends axially in the aperture opening.

5. The disposable cover system according to claim 4, wherein the compressible gasket further extends radially from the aperture opening along the sterile outer surface of the cover, radially from the aperture opening along the inner surface of the cover inside the internal cavity, or both radially from the aperture opening along the sterile outer surface of the cover and radially from the aperture opening along the inner surface of the cover inside the internal cavity.

6. The disposable cover system according to claim 1, wherein the closing mechanism is attached to the cover, or the cover includes the closing mechanism.

7. The disposable cover system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the closing mechanism is arranged to permanently close the opening.

8. The disposable cover system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the compressible gasket is compressible between compression surfaces to form a compression seal around the aperture opening.

9. The disposable cover system according to claim 8, wherein the compression surface includes the first pass-through compression surface and the second compression surface of the power tool.

10. The disposable cover system according to claim 8, wherein the compression surface includes the pass-through second compression surface and the first compression surface.

11. The disposable cover system according to claim 8, wherein the compression surface includes a first compression surface and a second compression surface in each part of a plurality of partial devices.

12. The cover further comprises a cover fitting mechanism that is operable to adapt a portion of the cover to the shape of the power tool, The disposable cover system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the cover fitting mechanism is attached to the cover, or the cover includes the cover fitting mechanism.

13. The disposable cover system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the check valve includes a filter.

14. The disposable cover system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the cover includes the check valve.

15. The opening of a disposable cover is oriented to receive a power tool into an internal cavity defined by the disposable cover, wherein the disposable cover includes a sterile outer surface and further defines the aperture opening. The closing mechanism is operated to close the opening when the drive portion of the power tool is adjacent to the aperture opening and the power tool is inside the internal cavity, A compression seal is formed around the aperture opening to seal the power tool inside the internal cavity, Applying pressure to the disposable cover, forcibly expelling air from the internal cavity to the outside of the disposable cover via a check valve, Includes, A method for forming the above, comprising compressing one or more compressible gaskets surrounding the aperture opening.

16. The method according to claim 15, further comprising arranging one or more compressible gaskets adjacent to the aperture opening.

17. To form the above means to connect a transmission component to the drive portion of the power tool for transmitting movement from the power tool through the disposable cover; or The method according to claim 15 or 16, wherein forming involves joining together multiple parts of a plurality of parts device to trap one or more compressible gaskets between the multiple parts of the plurality of parts device.

18. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 17, further comprising positioning the power tool inside the internal cavity such that the drive portion of the power tool is adjacent to the aperture opening.

19. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 18, further comprising creating the aperture opening.

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